Fishmeal Industry Drives Dietary Shifts in The Gambia
The Gambia's coastal residents traditionally relied heavily on fish for their diet, with local dishes like domoda and benachin featuring it prominently. However, the rising cost and availability of fish, driven partly by the expanding fishmeal industry, is causing concern and dietary shifts.
Fish has long been a staple in The Gambia, but its price has soared in recent years. Traditionally prized red snapper, once affordable at GMD 100, now costs ten times that. This increase is partly due to the booming fishmeal industry, which has expanded significantly over the past decade, promising jobs and economic development. The industry's growth has led to a rise in fish prices, making it less affordable for local consumption.
The fishmeal industry's expansion has also raised concerns about overfishing. Foreign-owned industrial fishing vessels are accused of over-exploiting West African fisheries to feed the industry. The Gambia, home to three fishmeal plants, has faced accusations of fuelling overfishing and polluting local waters. Despite these concerns, the industry continues to grow, with companies like Golden Lead Import & Export Co. operating in the region.
The high price of fish is leading to dietary changes. Frozen chicken, though less healthy and of uncertain quality, is replacing fish in traditional dishes. This shift is worrying, as a national nutrition policy reports that most Gambian women are in a constant state of energy deficit due to poor dietary habits.
The fishmeal industry's growth in The Gambia, while promising jobs and economic development, has led to a significant increase in fish prices. This, coupled with concerns about overfishing, is driving dietary changes that could have serious health implications. Local authorities and the industry must work together to ensure sustainable fishing practices and affordable fish for local consumption.
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