What are the challenges of strengthen fisheries?
Climate change adaptation is a pressing issue around the world and strengthening fisheries with EAFM can help. In the windward islands in the Caribbean, and other Small Island Developing States, climate change adaptation needs to incorporate disaster risk management as islands are vulnerable to strong winds and hurricanes. The beautiful island of Dominica is particularly vulnerable with its mountainous landscape, having an increased risk of flooding after storms.
Fisheries is an integral part of island life. The industry has always supported the island's population. With increased demands being put on recourses it is imperative to sustainably strengthen fisheries management by building national capacity.
This aligns with FAO’s mission to promote sustainable natural resource management across the Caribbean. It will also foster ecosystem-based solutions that contribute to healthier marine ecosystems, improved governance, and the long-term protection of livelihoods for the coastal communities of Dominica.
How has IMA been involved?
IMA, in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) successfully conducted an Essential Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries Management (EAFM) Planning workshop which integrated Disaster Risk Management (DRM) and Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) at the Roseau Fisheries Complex, Dominica.
The workshop was originally designed for past participants of the initial EAFM training that IMA delivered in 2024. The interest and the uptake of the training was however extremely popular. Multiple participants had not been exposed to the initial training. The training was adapted to accommodate this and built up the momentum. The training was designed to deepen participants’ understanding of sustainable fisheries governance, ecosystem preservation, and climate resilience. Following this participants developed a plan to put learning into action. Key components of the training included a practical EAFM case study analysis. This provided real-world application of EAFM principles and facilitated insightful feedback.
Additionally, the workshop emphasised the integration of gender and social inclusion into EAFM processes, ensuring that future fisheries management strategies are equitable and inclusive.
What methods were used to strengthen fisheries during the training?
Participants were actively engaged in hands-on exercises, including group facilitation activities, scenario- based role plays, and interactive discussions. The training also covered vital areas such as adult learning methodologies, effective session delivery, and the development of actionable fisheries management strategies. A significant aspect of the workshop was focused on equipping participants with practical facilitation skills through mini-session practices and group exercises. Developing the skills needed for them to serve as competent EAFM trainers within their respective roles.
Who was involved in the training?
Sixteen Fisheries Division officers, staff of the Soufriere/Scotts Head Marine Reserve (SSMR) and seven fishermen, participated in this specialised training. It was designed to enhance their ability to lead future initiatives in responsible and ecosystem-focused fisheries practices.
IMA International was contracted by FAO to facilitate the workshop. The training was led by Chris Grose, Managing Director and Lead Consultant, along with Research Manager, Leigh Dowsett. In addition, Camille David, an independent consultant specialising in the Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries Management (EAFM), was also contracted to contribute his expertise to the training. Their combined guidance provided participants with essential skills and knowledge to develop, implement, and monitor EAFM plans effectively.
IMA services
IMA International has worked in many countries to strengthen fisheries with EAFM since 2013 and will contiune to do so. We also provide training through both online and face-to-face training. Offering open courses, online tailored training, training of trainers, as well as consultancy for organisational change, coaching and mentoring. This builds capacity in international development programmes and humanitarian action globally. We constantly draw on our 40 years of experience working with the public and private sector. Including UN Agencies, NGOs, non-profits and many others. Our aim, is to help organisations enhance their work. We do this by supporting collaboration within organisations and with their stakeholders, to work more efficiently towards their vision.
Our core values are Innovation, Inclusivity and to Inspiring Change. We pride ourselves in our engaging, creative, supportive, and participatory training approaches. We are well-experienced in designing and facilitating training sessions and workshops to support capacity building. Always ensuring engaging and participatory knowledge-sharing and learning is encouraged, to identify important themes and develop future learnings.
