The Social Environmental Agency (SEA) implements comprehensive Fisheries Development and Livelihood Support programs aimed at improving food security, increasing household incomes, and strengthening economic resilience among fishing communities in Jubaland, South West State, and Mogadishu.
Somalia has one of the longest coastlines in Africa, yet many fishing communities remain vulnerable due to limited access to modern equipment, skills, markets, and financial services. SEA works closely with fishermen and fisherwomen to unlock the full potential of the fisheries sector through inclusive, sustainable, and community-driven interventions.
SEA’s fisheries programs are designed to align with national development priorities, climate adaptation strategies, and sustainable marine resource management frameworks.
SEA provides extensive hands-on training and continuous mentoring to both fishermen and fisherwomen. These trainings focus on sustainable fishing practices, responsible resource use, and climate-smart approaches that help protect marine ecosystems while increasing productivity.
Participants receive training on safety at sea, navigation basics, first aid, emergency preparedness, and proper use and maintenance of fishing equipment. Additional modules cover fish handling, hygiene standards, quality control, and post-harvest management to reduce losses and improve market value.
Special attention is given to empowering women engaged in fish processing and marketing by strengthening technical skills, leadership capacity, and participation in fisheries value chains.
To enhance productivity, safety, and efficiency, SEA supports fishing communities with appropriate and environmentally responsible fishing equipment, accompanied by practical training on usage and maintenance.
SEA promotes value addition to ensure fishing communities maximize income from their catch. Beneficiaries are trained in improved processing techniques that increase shelf life, quality, and market demand.
Trainings also focus on converting fish by-products into marketable goods, reducing waste while creating additional income opportunities.
SEA supports fishing households to diversify income sources and strengthen financial resilience, particularly during fishing off-seasons and climate-related shocks.
Beneficiaries receive training in basic business skills, record keeping, cooperative management, and market engagement. SEA facilitates linkages to local markets, buyers, cooperatives, and community savings groups to enhance income stability.
SEA’s fisheries interventions are implemented with funding and support from the Federal Government of Somalia and relevant State Governments.
Close coordination with government institutions, community leaders, and fisheries committees ensures sustainability, local ownership, and alignment with national fisheries policies and development strategies.
Through fisheries development, SEA contributes to poverty reduction, food security, women’s economic empowerment, and climate resilience. By strengthening skills, improving access to equipment, promoting value addition, and supporting sustainable resource management, SEA enables fishing communities to build dignified, resilient, and sustainable livelihoods.