### A lasting fishing at the heart of socio-economic challenges: the delivery of inputs to Boma
On March 27, 2025, the port city of Boma, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), witnessed a significant event: the official delivery of an important batch of inputs and fishing equipment for the region by the Minister of Fisheries and Breeding, Jean-Pierre Tshimanga Bwana. Although this symbolic act illustrates the government’s support towards this sector, it also raises questions on long -term viability of fishery activity, prey to multiple challenges.
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Jean-Pierre Tshimanga, accompanied by his provincial counterpart, Fiston Lubaki, and the Secretary General of the Ministry, visited the headquarters of the Union of Fishermen’s Associations, which now has 1,224 members. During this meeting, Maurice Libali, the president of the Union, expressed his gratitude for government support. However, he also highlighted the complexity of the landscape of fishing in Boma, which has become a real microcosm of the country’s socio-economic challenges.
With the actions of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) adding an additional dimension to this dynamic, it seems that efforts to revitalize sustainable fishing are underway. But what about long-term impacts? Is the sustainability of this aid ensured?
### Fragile fishing economy
Despite the resources awarded, the Boma fishermen’s association comes up against considerable obstacles. The lack of adequate infrastructure – such as accosting points and installations for the conservation of fishery products – makes it difficult to access the market and the sustainability of the activity. These challenges are all the more crucial in a country where food insecurity is a persistent reality. In 2023, the DRC was classified among the countries most affected by food insecurity, with nearly 27 million people in food crisis, according to the global food program.
Fishing has the potential to become a solid alternative to imports, especially with regard to fish. However, without responsible management of resources, development efforts come up against the reality of a lack of infrastructure and often incomplete regulatory supervision.
#### A call to collective responsibility
On this occasion, Jean-Pierre Tshimanga wanted to remind fishermen the importance of responsible fishing, a necessity in a context where maritime resources are increasingly under pressure. The Minister took care to highlight the risks linked to fishing outside of territorial waters, calling for fishing practices which guarantee the sustainability of maritime resources. This encourages reflection on fishing practices and the need for protection devices that include not only restrictions, but also awareness -raising initiatives with fishermen.
It is imperative that public policies align with the real needs of fishermen’s communities. This involves a holistic approach which includes training on sustainable fishing methods and the development of integrated fishery management plans.
### towards a better future: a collective commitment
It is clear that the temporary aid provided by the government and international organizations is a good start, but it must be accompanied by a long -term vision. Integrating the development of fishing into a more global economic revitalization plan for the region could be decisive. This could take the form of public-private partnerships, specific training for fishermen, and the creation of a robust legal framework to promote investment in infrastructure.
In addition, with climate change that slowly changes aquatic ecosystems, it is crucial that all stakeholders – government, non -governmental organizations, local communities and private sector – collaborate to design innovative solutions.
Success will not be based solely on the quantity of equipment or inputs distributed, but on the collective capacity to manage these resources in a responsible and sustainable manner for future generations. The future of the fishery sector in Boma and its contribution to food security in the DRC will depend on this collective commitment.
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This lighting on the situation in Boma aims to arouse a broader reflection on the way in which fishing policies can evolve to meet the growing needs of a country with rich but under-exploited resources. For a fishing that has lastingly and safely nourish the Congolese populations, you have to make the future a conscious, well -informed and shared choice.