Policy Framework and Reform Strategy for Fisheries and Aquaculture in Africa: Creating a Conducive and Enabling Environment for the Fish Sector to Create Equitable, Social and Economic Development in Africa

This document sets out a continental policy framework and reform strategy to guide African Union Member States, regional bodies, and stakeholders in transforming fisheries and aquaculture to better support food security, livelihoods, and wealth creation. It describes current sector conditions, including overexploitation, illegal fishing, weak governance, limited investment, and underdeveloped aquaculture, alongside the sector’s economic and nutritional significance. It defines seven priority policy arenas—resource conservation, small-scale fisheries, aquaculture, trade and marketing, regional cooperation, capacity development, and high seas fisheries—with objectives, expected outcomes, and indicative action steps. It also addresses cross-cutting issues such as climate change resilience, gender and youth inclusion, and financing mechanisms.