Analysis of Fishery Resource Management Practices in São Tomé and Príncipe: Perception of the Dynamics of Catches from 1950–2020, Recommendations and Strategies for Future Research

Abstract

Fisheries play an important role in the socio-economic development of São Tomé and Príncipe (STP), although the exploited fishery resources have remained largely unknown due to extreme data limitation conditions, which have hindered their sustainable utilization and effective management. Fish has traditionally been seen as a crucial element in the population’s dietary and nutritional security, playing a significant role as a source of 85% of animal protein. However, the sustainable management of these resources has recently been facing some challenges. Fishermen control the patterns of fishing exploitation by modifying their methods in response to shifting socioeconomic situations and the management of their resources. In the present study, we assess the dynamics and trends of catches of artisanal, semi-industrial, and industrial fleets in São Tomé and Príncipe marine waters, as well as aspects related to fishing effort, using catch data collected from 1950 to 2020. The observed results show the dynamics and importance that the fishing sectors of São Tomé and Príncipe have for the country’s economic growth. According to the indices of abundance of fishery resources, the levels of exploitation during this study’s period revealed a reduction in recent years of artisanal catches. Furthermore, this study also identified major problems faced in the fishing sector of São Tomé and Príncipe and makes some recommendations to address them. These recommendations would allow future studies to define the status of stocks threatened or overexploited and control fishing efforts, ensuring the legitimacy and sustainability of fishing activity in São Tomé and Príncipe.