Traditional small-scale fisheries are fundamental to the livelihoods and food security of hundreds of millions of people throughout the world. Yet marine ecosystems and the fisheries they support are facing unprecedented pressures. With soaring demand for seafood, there is a critical need to diversify coastal livelihoods to reduce pressure on resources.
Blue Ventures is working with coastal communities and private sector aquaculture businesses in Madagascar to develop viable livelihood activities appropriate to the local environment and culture. Our community-based aquaculture initiative is providing coastal people in southwest Madagascar with new sources of income, allowing improved access to food and education, while alleviating pressure on marine biodiversity.