IFES Institute Launches Integrated Fisheries Skills and Livelihoods Program in Bosaso, Puntland Somalia

The Institute of Fisheries and Environmental Solutions (IFES Institute Somalia) has officially launched its Integrated Fisheries Skills and Livelihoods Training Program in Bosaso, marking a significant milestone in advancing sustainable fisheries development and economic resilience in coastal communities. This strategic initiative is designed to address critical gaps in skills, infrastructure awareness, and environmental management within Somalia’s fisheries sector, while unlocking the vast potential of the country’s marine resources.

Somalia, with its coastline exceeding 3,300 kilometers, holds one of the richest marine ecosystems in Africa. However, despite this immense potential, the fisheries sector remains underdeveloped due to structural challenges including limited technical capacity, inadequate post-harvest systems, and exposure to climate-related disruptions such as seasonal monsoon winds. According to the World Bank, strengthening fisheries governance and community capacity is essential for transforming the sector into a driver of inclusive economic growth and food security.

The IFES program directly responds to these challenges by transforming the seasonal slowdown in fishing activities—particularly during the monsoon period—into an opportunity for intensive skills development and capacity building. The initiative targets small-scale fishers, women fishmongers, fisheries students, and local authorities, ensuring a comprehensive and inclusive approach to sector development.

Through a combination of theoretical and practical training, participants are equipped with modern, sustainable fishing techniques that promote responsible resource utilization and ecosystem conservation. The program also emphasizes improved fish handling and post-harvest management practices, addressing one of the most critical inefficiencies in the sector—high post-harvest losses due to poor storage and hygiene conditions. By reducing these losses, communities can significantly increase their income without increasing fishing pressure on marine resources.

Environmental sustainability remains at the core of the IFES intervention. Participants engage in coastal clean-up campaigns and awareness sessions on marine conservation, reinforcing the importance of protecting ocean ecosystems for long-term productivity. This aligns with global fisheries research highlighting that sustainable practices are essential to prevent depletion of fish stocks and ensure intergenerational resource availability.

In recognition of the evolving nature of fisheries systems, the program integrates digital and financial literacy components, enabling participants to access market information, manage finances, and explore new economic opportunities. This approach reflects global best practices where technology and financial inclusion are increasingly critical to enhancing efficiency, transparency, and competitiveness in fisheries value chains.

Furthermore, the program promotes entrepreneurship and livelihood diversification, encouraging participants to explore value-added activities such as fish processing, packaging, and small business development. This not only strengthens local economies but also reduces vulnerability to external shocks, including climate variability and market fluctuations.

The expected outcomes of the program extend beyond immediate skill acquisition. In the short term, participants gain practical knowledge and improved techniques, while in the medium term, the program contributes to increased incomes, stronger value chains, and enhanced participation of women and youth in the fisheries sector. In the long term, IFES envisions a sustainable and resilient fisheries system that contributes significantly to Somalia’s blue economy and national development goals.

The IFES Institute Somalia continues to position itself as a leading research and think tank institution, delivering evidence-based, innovative, and impactful solutions for the fisheries and environmental sectors. Through initiatives such as this program, IFES is not only building skills but also shaping the future of sustainable coastal livelihoods in Somalia.