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An Ascending Africa Initiative

Illegal Fishing & Sustainability Challenges Threaten East Africa’s Blue Economy

Overfishing, IUUF, and Limited Enforcement Undermine Marine Resources and Coastal Livelihoods in East Africa

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Tackling the challenge

Illegal, Unreported Unregulated Fishing (IUUF) refers to fishing activities that threaten marine ecosystems, local fisheries, and coastal communities. It leads to overfishing, depleting fish stocks, and disrupting the livelihoods of legal fishers.

Combating IUUF is essential for the success of the Blue Economy which focuses on the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth while preserving marine systems. Tackling IUUF ensures the long-term health of fish populations, a prosperous future for coastal communities, and promotes marine conservation.

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ECONOMIC LOSSES

Studies estimate that illegal fishing in the SWIO leads to annual economic losses exceeding $1 billion.

STOLEN RESOURCES

It is estimated that up to 40% of the total catch in some regions of SWIO comes from illegal, unreported, or unregulated fishing activities.

FOOD INSECURITY

More than 20 million people in the Southwest Indian Ocean (SWIO) region depend on fishing for food and their livelihoods, IUUF causes food insecurity and economic hardship for coastal communities.

ECOSYSTEM THREATS

Overfishing via IUUF impacts fish populations and their ecosystems affecting endangered species at high risk of illegal fishing. Illegal fishing further threatens the balance of marine ecosystems and the survival of vulnerable species.

Who is Affected by IUUF?

African Coastal Communities

Coastal Communities

These communities rely on fish for their food supply and IUUF depletes fish stocks reducing the availability of this critical food source, exacerbating food insecurity. Economic losses are also incurred for communities that rely on the fishing industry for income via fishing, processing, or tourism as a source of livelihood.

IUUF drastically threatens marine ecosystems

Marine Ecosystems

Overfishing caused by IUUF threatens fish stocks, reducing numbers and preventing recovery. This leads to disruption of marine biodiversity, impacting species at all levels of the food chain. IUUF targets vulnerable species already at risk due to overexploitation. Marine ecosystem balance is affected by IUUF such that coral reefs that rely on a healthy population of fish to maintain their ecological integrity are impacted.

Local African fishers depend on fish stocks for their livelihood

Local Fishers

Small-scale fishers that depend on fish stocks for their livelihoods are directly impacted by IUUF. The decline in available resources makes it harder for local fishers to catch fish and sell them at sustainable prices.

Global Markets

Global Markets

The seafood market, in regions like the US, Europe, and Asia, is affected by illegal fishing as illegal products may enter the supply chain undermining consumer trust and threatening the stability of the industry. Conscious consumers who prioritize sustainable and responsibly sourced seafood are affected as it becomes harder to trace the origin of the fish products affecting their ability to make informed decisions.

The Jahazi Project

"Jahazi" originates from the Swahili word for “sailing vessel” or a “dhow”. It symbolizes mobility, trade, and seafaring culture, and can be a metaphor for navigating change.

Through this initiative, we delve into Jahazi’s historical significance, its role in global trade, its contribution to local economies, and its connection to environmental preservation. By reflecting on both the past and present, The Jahazi Project seeks to spark dialogue on sustainable development, collective action, and long-term environmental stewardship.

Led by Ascending Africa, The Jahazi Project aims to collaborate with decision-makers, local investors, and East African Governments to address shared challenges in the Blue Economy. By bringing together stakeholders from government agencies and NGOs to local businesses and coastal communities, this initiative drives efforts to combat Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing (IUUF) and champion sustainable marine practices, ensuring the region’s maritime resources thrive for generations to come.

Benefits of the Blue Economy

Economic Impact

The blue economy is a key factor for economic growth in East Africa by providing jobs, supporting trade, and strengthening coastal communities. Governments recognize its potential for new investment opportunities in marine industries such as fisheries, tourism, shipping, and renewable energy. These sectors not only generate employment and tax revenue but also contribute to food security and sustainability. By promoting responsible practices, the blue economy fosters long-term growth while protecting marine ecosystems for future generations.

Marine Conservation

Marine conservation is essential to the blue economy, preserving the health of ocean ecosystems by protecting marine biodiversity. The East African coastline established Marine Conservation Areas (MCAs) and Co-Management Areas (CMAs) that promote sustainable fishing practices and safeguard marine habitats. Through the preservation of coral reefs and mangroves, coastal communities will be able to maintain fish populations, uphold economic growth, and strengthen resilience to climate change.

Local Investment

Local investment in the blue economy promotes economic growth and resilience of coastal and island communities. By supporting sustainable fisheries, renewable ocean energy, and coastal tourism, these investments create new jobs and diversify income sources. They also foster sustainable development, enhance local capacity to adapt to environmental challenges, and reduce poverty. Investing in coastal communities empowers residents and ensures the long-term, responsible use of ocean resources.

Articles

Blue Voices Regional Summit Challenges Foreign Fishing Fleets as SWIO Nations Push Joint Action

09/02/2026

The three-day Blue Voices Regional Summit, hosted in Zanzibar and convened under the Jahazi Project, brought together ministers, legal authorities, and maritime agencies from Tanzania and Kenya to coordinate action against illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing (IUUF). Participants framed the issue not only as an environmental concern but as a matter of sovereignty, economic security, and rule of law.

Read More

Blue Voices Regional Summit Challenges Foreign Fishing Fleets as SWIO Nations Push Joint Action

09/02/2026

The three-day Blue Voices Regional Summit, hosted in Zanzibar and convened under the Jahazi Project, brought together ministers, legal authorities, and maritime agencies from Tanzania and Kenya to coordinate action against illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing (IUUF). Participants framed the issue not only as an environmental concern but as a matter of sovereignty, economic security, and rule of law.

Read More
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