Blue Shell Productions

Project DigiFish Launch Highlights



Reposted from

Fisherfolk Catching The Digital Wave Of Change

Barbados’ fishing industry is well on its way to capitalising on new technological advancements to move the sector forward, increasing the safety of fishermen at sea, and improving the marketability of local fish in international markets.

This follows the launch of Project DigiFish by the Barbados Environmental Conservation Trust (BECT) and the Barbados National Union of Fisherfolk Organisations (BARNUFO), as part of the activities to mark the United Nations World Oceans Day on June 9, celebrated under the theme: Revitalisation: Collective Action for the Ocean.

The DigiFish project is a one-year project funded by the BECT and supported by Pelagic Data Systems. It promotes the use of digital technologies and innovative data analytical methods to support the application of the ecosystem approach to fisheries in Barbados.

Speaking during the launch, Chair of BECT, Neysha Soodeen, said the project would revolutionise the fishing industry through the use of technology.

“We said yes to revolutionising the fisheries industry in Barbados by introducing new digital technologies, … exploring new data to better inform Government policy and improve fisheries management, … and improving the livelihoods and safety of our fishing communities across Barbados. It is absolutely fascinating that one small device can be so powerful to achieve all that,” she said.

She explained that US$30,000 was donated by the Edmiston family to launch the project, resulting in 30 trackers being placed on 30 vessels during the first pilot project. However, there is a waiting list as fisherfolk who want to get involved in the project have also requested tracking devices for their vessels.

Read more: https://gisbarbados.gov.bb/blog/fisherfolk-catching-the-digital-wave-of-change/

Seine boat fishing culture.

FAD #4