Capacity Building for Wabafu Fishermen: Advancing Sustainable Fisheries and Financial-Environmental Sustainability
The project aims to build a well-governed, financially sustainable fishermen’s association in Dangriga, Belize. Given that small-scale fisheries are central to Garifuna livelihoods and culture, the Wabafu Fishermen Association will work with its 30 members, government partners, and Blue Ventures to address key challenges such as weak governance, limited financial planning, and declining catch rates. The project focuses on strengthening institutional capacity through improved governance systems and business planning, while equipping fishers with sustainable fishing practices and climate adaptation skills, ultimately enabling the association to represent its members effectively, safeguard marine resources, and secure the long-term resilience of Dangriga’s small-scale fisheries.
Grantee
Wabafu Fishermen Association
Location
Dangriga
Thematic Area
Time-frame
February 2026 – May 2027
Project Goal:
To transition Wabafu into a well-governed, operational, and credible fisher association that actively participates in fisheries management and promotes sustainable fishing practices that strengthen livelihoods and reduce pressure on marine ecosystems.
Project Objectives:
- By February 2027, Wabafu Fishermen Association strengthens its institutional management, governance, and financial capacity through the establishment of functional office operations, transparent leadership and decision-making systems, updated strategic and policy frameworks, and improved financial management practices.
- By February 2027, at least 20 individuals from the Wabafu membership strengthen their capacity to practice sustainable fishing, manage household finances, and adapt to climate change, contributing to long-term fisheries sustainability in Managed Access Areas 3 and 8.
- By February 2027, at least 150 people are reached through Wabafu’s virtual and in-person outreach initiatives promoting sustainable fishing and the role of the Association.
Expected Outputs:
- A fully functional office space and storage unit that support Wabafu operations.
- Wabafu has functional and transparent governance mechanisms established and practiced, with defined leadership roles, and regular communication between the leadership and members.
- Wabafu’s work is guided by an updated Strategic Plan (2026-2031) and supporting organizational policy documents.
- The association’s finances are effectively managed and at least one new feasible revenue generation mechanism has been identified and integrated into an annual workplan.
- 10 Wabafu members are trained in sustainable fishing, equipping 30 Wabafu members with sustainable fishing capacity and gear.
- 8 Wabafu members are trained in household financial literacy.
- 10 Wabafu members are trained in climate change adaptation.
- A community event that promotes sustainable fishing is held in Dangriga in June 2026.
- Wabafu maintains a consistent online presence by posting at least two Facebook updates per month promoting sustainable fishing and association activities.
