Fisheries data harmonisation in the Western Indian Ocean: Building a regional data ecosystem for resilient small-scale fisheries

Small-scale fisheries (SSF) in the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) region are vital for biodiversity conservation and the livelihoods of millions, particularly vulnerable coastal communities. Yet, due to persistent challenges in reporting and visualising SSF, decision-making is not sufficiently based on the latest data and knowledge. Multiple agencies now collect SSF data, but these efforts are inconsistent and unstandardised. Data fragmentation, inconsistent methodologies, and limited accessibility hinder effective governance. Efforts to manage SSF sustainably are further hampered by a lack of reliable scientific data, limited analytical capacity, and inadequate policy support.

Citation

Alexander Tilley, Marc Léopold, Pascal Thoya, Emmanuel Mbaru. (31/12/2025). Fisheries data harmonisation in the Western Indian Ocean: Building a regional data ecosystem for resilient small-scale fisheries. United Republic of Tanzania: Wiomsa.