Fishing News Reel in the Action: Latest Fishing News 20250310-20250316
Latest Fishing News 20250310-20250316 – Here you can check out some international news that has something to do with fishing. Some items are very actual.
SAMSA Initiates Fishing Vessel Safety Audits (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
March 10, 2025
(source: safety4sea.com – by The Editorial Team)
The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) will conduct safety audits. These audits will focus on all commercial fishing vessels. They are operating within South African waters. This action comes after tragic fishing incidents. Furthermore, these incidents resulted in the loss of eighteen lives in 2024.
Minister Orders Comprehensive Safety Review
On October 22, 2024, Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy gave instructions. She instructed Mahesh Fakir, the SAMSA Board Chairperson. Fakir must conduct urgent safety inspections. These inspections will include all South African commercial fishing vessels. Creecy wants a report as soon as possible. Clearly, the instruction followed growing concerns. These concerns regarded the safety of fishing vessels.
Developing a Safety Improvement Plan (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
Moreover, SAMSA received instructions to develop a plan. This plan will improve fishing vessel safety. The plan seeks to minimize future incidents. It also ensures vessels meet high safety standards. Consequently, this proactive measure aims to prevent tragedies. It establishes a safer working environment for fishers.
Key Objectives of the Audits
The project’s main goal is to assess safety compliance. It also aims to find gaps in compliance. SAMSA will use national and international rules. Finally, SAMSA wants to provide advice on safety. This will enhance standards. Consequently, this ensures a safer fleet.
Specific Audit Focus Areas
Specifically, the audit will assess compliance. This compliance includes national laws and global best practices. Then, the audit will look at SAMSA’s inspections. This will assess the effectiveness of SAMSA’s survey methods. It also evaluates the effectiveness of national law.
Risk Identification and Mitigation (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
Notably, the audit will pinpoint risks. These risks relate to vessel age and maintenance. Also, it will examine crew training and safety gear. Next, it will assess vessel integrity. This will be based on regulations. Finally, it will identify and reduce risks. These risks are related to stability assessments.
Emergency Preparedness and Safety Improvement
Significantly, the audit will assess emergency response measures. It will look at South African fishing vessels. Following this, SAMSA will propose a safety plan. This plan will address any problems found. This creates safer conditions.
Vessel Selection Criteria (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
Specifically, the selection includes registered fishing vessels. It also prioritizes vessels with incidents. Another priority is vessels identified in audits. Vessels made of wood are also a priority. Also, vessels built before 1998 are included. Finally, it includes vessels with a history of losses.
Audit Commencement and Cooperation
Therefore, the audits start on March 1, 2025. The audits will last for four months nationally. SAMSA will notify owners and operators. This notification will advise which vessels are needed. SAMSA values the cooperation of the fishing industry.
Supertrawlers Dominate UK Protected Areas (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
March 11, 2025
(source: greenpeace.org.uk – by Alexandra Sedgwick)
Giant supertrawlers continue to fish in UK Marine Protected Areas. Greenpeace UK revealed this in a recent investigation. These actions damage habitats and fish populations. This happens despite government promises and powers.
Years of Fishing in Protected Zones
From January 2020 to January 2025, investigators found something alarming. Twenty-six supertrawlers spent much time fishing. This took place in 44 UK offshore MPAs. Collectively, these vessels spent 4.2 years fishing. That’s nearly 37,000 hours in these protected waters.
Government Promises Remain Unfulfilled (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
All supertrawlers operated legally. The UK government could have banned them since Brexit. Shocking figures reveal broken promises. These promises regard ocean protection over five years. Protected areas are being exploited beyond limits.
MPAs Boost Fish Populations Significantly
These areas conserve habitats and species. Furthermore, they preserve essential processes for healthy oceans. MPAs significantly increase fish populations. Studies in Lyme Bay and Cabo Pulmo support this. MPA protection boosts fish abundance by 400%.
New Investigation Highlights Ongoing Issues
A previous investigation looked at 2019. This new one provides a fuller view since Brexit. Now a new Labour government has promised action. The exit of Russian vessels shows change is possible.
Supertrawlers: Massive and Destructive (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
Supertrawlers are massive, over 100m long. They catch tonnes of fish, like herring, daily. They use enormous nets for this. Mackerel limits exceed scientific advice. These vessels catch bycatch, including dolphins.
High-Grading and Discarding Practices
Worse, high-grading occurs. This involves discarding low-value catches. This preserves the quota for valuable fish. This is an illegal practice. These methods harm the delicate marine life.
Little Economic Benefit for the UK
Moreover, the catch lands abroad. This provides little economic benefit to the UK. Destructive fishing affects marine health. Fish stocks available to small-scale fishers decline. Small-scale fishers land almost all catch in the UK.
Pressure on Specific Marine Protected Areas (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
Greenpeace found ten MPAs account for most fishing. These areas face immense pressure. Other destructive methods, such as bottom trawling, also damage MPAs. It has been revealed by Oceana UK.
Call for Government Action on MPAs
Erica Finnie urged government action. The government is failing protected seas. MPAs should be safe places for marine life. Allowing industrial fishing mocks these areas. The UK must ban supertrawlers.
Political Pressure and Global Ocean Treaty
Felix Lane called the failure a scandal. The Labour government must ban destructive fishing. This allows the government to deliver on promises. The UK must ratify the Global Ocean Treaty. This protects global oceans by 2030.
Key MPAs Under Threat (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
The most fished MPAs are off Scotland. They include Wyville Thomson Ridge and others. These protect seamounts, reefs, and corals. The MPAs support crustaceans, sponges, and sea birds. A whole ecosystem approach is needed.
Urgent Need for Trawling Management
Phil Taylor stated damage occurs daily. He is the Director of Open Seas. Businesses profit while harming the seas. He emphasized the need for managed trawling. This can regenerate the seas for future generations.
Porpoises Threatened in Protected Zone
The Southern North Sea MPA protects harbor porpoises. Supertrawlers threaten these porpoises. Estimates indicate over 1000 cetaceans die yearly. This occurs in UK fisheries, which is a major problem.
Identifying Repeat Offenders (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
The biggest offenders were Dutch and German vessels. They include Willem van der Zwan and Margiris. The Helen Mary was detained for fisheries offenses. Investigations are currently underway. The German ship violated the rules.
Public Support for MPA Protection
Russian operations declined sharply in 2023. Dutch and German vessels increased activity. 750,000 people signed a petition. This calls for a supertrawler ban in MPAs. Public support shows strong desire for action.
Weak Regulations and Lack of Meaningful Protection (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
A Greenpeace report found 90% of MPAs are unprotected. They have no meaningful regulation on destructive fishing. Stronger protection is needed in UK waters. Meaningful progress is vital for UK MPAs.
Greenpeace Takes Direct Action
Greenpeace has taken action against industrial fishing. They sailed alongside supertrawlers in MPAs. Also, they dropped boulders to defend MPAs. Direct action protects what the government fails to.
Fiji’s Harbor: A Ship Graveyard (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
March 12, 2025
(source: rnz.co.nz – by Harry Pearl, BenarNews)
Parts of Fiji‘s Suva harbor look like a ship graveyard. More than two dozen boats sit, rusting and abandoned. The boats are unseaworthy because of policy failures. Foreign owners left these boats due to money issues. This scene raises serious concerns.
Ghostly Fleet Creates Hazards
The ghostly fleet consists of 25 Chinese fishing boats. These boats now block the path for vessels. Also, they risk leaking fuel and toxic chemicals. This threatens the marine environment. They are an eyesore for residents and tourists.
Pacific Dumping: Exploiting Weakness (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
Fiji’s boat problem shows some operators are dishonest. They exploit weak rules in the Pacific region. There are also gray areas in maritime law. An unknown number of hulks remain in the area. Many Pacific islands face this challenge.
Local Authorities Bear the Burden
Lacking insurance makes disposal a problem. Local authorities carry the cost of the cleanup. Rust covers the boats, visible from downtown Suva. Some boats are clustered together. Others lie on their sides in shallow water.
Pandemic Increases Abandoned Vessels
The boats started piling up during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Most of them are Chinese,” said Joeli Cawaki. He is the CEO of the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF). Declining catches led companies to abandon the boats. Owners and crew have already left.
Removal Efforts and Owner Non-Compliance (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
Some owners offered to fund scuttling. This reduced the number of boats from 44 to 25. Owners of the remaining boats refuse to comply. MSAF estimates it will cost over $170,000 USD. This will scuttle all the vessels.
Poor Fisheries Management Blamed
Grahame Southwick said poor management is the cause. He previously owned Fiji’s largest fishing company. The influx of foreign vessels is to blame. Subsidized boats from China are especially a problem. This destroys Pacific stocks.
Unprofitable Industry and Lack of Insurance
Catches fell, resulting in boats being tied up. Southwick once had 14 vessels and a cannery. He also had around 1,000 employees. About 90-95% of vessels lack insurance. Fishing operations were unviable. Also, it’s impossible to find the real owners.
Need for Bonds and Insurance (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
To prevent problems, bonds are needed. Every boat needs insurance before entering the harbor. Pacific Islands states have large EEZs. Many depend on fisheries revenue. They obtain revenue from exports and licensing foreign vessels.
Burden on Pacific Island Nations
Almost 3,100 fishing boats operate in the Pacific. China, Japan, and Taiwan have large fleets. “We struggle to look after our fleet,” said Anthony Talouli. He is the director of waste management. EEZs allow operators to cut corners.
Responsibilities at Multiple Levels
The abandonment of vessels represents failure. “Responsibility is primarily on the owner,” said Talouli. Flag states must ensure proper flagging. Port states must ensure compliance. This protects the ocean.
Stricter Rules Needed for Fishing Vessels (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
IMO rules are stricter for cargo vessels. Fishing vessels often fall below the size limits. It is unclear how many vessels are across the Pacific. This is a cause of concern. They pose a threat to the environment.
Suva Harbor: A Dumping Ground
Suva harbor has long been a dumping site. The numbers increased during COVID-19. Cyclone Sarai drove boats onto a reef in 2019. These remain aground. P&I insurance and wreck removal cover are necessary.
Fiji Not Alone in This Struggle
Samoa seized at least 11 abandoned boats last year. They are suing the owner to recover costs. Three boats caught fire at Salelologa Wharf. A Chinese boat ran aground in Papua New Guinea. It has not been salvaged.
Lack of WCPFC Policies (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
The WCPFC lacks specific disposal policies. They also do not have regulations about wreck insurance. This matter has not been a priority. However, some members likely find it important. Stricter measures are needed.
Tightening Regulations and Future Prevention
Cawaki said lessons have been learned. Regulations are being tightened. They are preventing future dumping. Internal consultation is needed. MSAF, fisheries, and ports must communicate. All vessels need insurance.
Costs and Cleanup Efforts
Scuttling each boat will cost $17,200 USD. The Fijian government has not allocated funds. Private companies will break down the ships. One vessel will be sunk as a dive site. This will support local tourism.
Tuna Giant Faces Lawsuit Over Forced Labor Claims (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
March 13, 2025
(source: nytimes.com – by Sui-Lee Wee and Muktita Suhartono)
Four Indonesian fishermen are suing Bumble Bee Foods. They allege the company knowingly benefited from forced labor. The fishermen claim their rights were violated at sea. They worked on vessels supplying tuna to Bumble Bee. The lawsuit seeks justice for their suffering.
Horrific Conditions Unveiled on Tuna Vessels
Fishermen recount appalling treatment on tuna boats. They were forced to eat bait due to food scarcity. One worker suffered brutal beatings by the captain. The captain used a metal hook to inflict pain. Another man received burns, but got no medical attention. He treated his wounds with Vaseline.
Exploitation and Despair at Sea
The boats remained at sea for months. They transferred their catches to other vessels. Escape seemed impossible for exploited workers. For them, there was little chance of rescue. This lawsuit aims to right the wrongs they endured. It targets Bumble Bee for allegedly tolerating abuse.
Seeking Justice for Abuses at Sea (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
Muhammad Syafi’i demands justice for himself. He also seeks justice for his fellow fishermen. He was a cook, also forced into fishing duties. Nearly half his salary went somewhere else for months. He suffered severe burns from hot oil. The captain denied him medical care.
The Tuna Industry’s Dark Secret
Global demand for tuna fuels human rights abuses. The industry is worth over $40 billion. The United States is a major seafood importer. About 80% of seafood is imported into the US. There is widespread concern regarding labor standards. This demand may be driving exploitation.
Forced Labor Rampant in Fishing Industry
The International Labor Organization reports shocking figures. They estimated 128,000 people trapped in forced labor. It is in the global fishing industry. The actual number is likely much higher. These conditions highlight the urgent need for reform.
Greenpeace Exposes Potential Tainted Tuna (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
Greenpeace tracked tuna from a flagged ship. It was identified for using forced labor. Codes on a Bumble Bee can revealed it was potentially contaminated. This raises concerns about tainted tuna in stores. The exposure puts more pressure on Bumble Bee.
Bumble Bee Faces Scrutiny and Accusations
Bumble Bee is owned by FCF, a Taiwanese company. They have not responded to the accusations. Previously, it removed misleading claims. The company removed claims about fishing practices. This action followed accusations of false advertising.
Horror Stories Emerge from Exploited Workers
Greenpeace’s report revealed shocking accounts. Indonesian fishermen were lured by false promises. They faced daily violence and starvation. They often ended up with no money. The experiences highlighted the vulnerability of workers.
Lawsuit Aims to Hold Company Accountable (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
The lawsuit leverages human trafficking laws. It allows survivors to sue companies. It also allows them to sue companies that benefited from forced labor. The lawsuit holds companies accountable for their actions. It is filed in a U.S. District Court in San Diego.
Victims Seek Compensation for Their Suffering
The plaintiffs seek unspecified monetary damages. They seek damages from Bumble Bee. The lawsuit aims to compensate them. It also will raise awareness about forced labor. It also will hold the company accountable.
Exploitation of Vulnerable Indonesian Workers
Poor Indonesians are lured with false promises. Brokers offer high pay for difficult jobs. Labor law enforcement is often weak. It is especially true in informal sectors. Official oversight is lacking. This allows companies to exploit workers.
Trauma and Lasting Scars of Forced Labor (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
Mr. Syafi’i remains shaken by his experience. The severe burns endured on a Chinese vessel left lasting damage. Multiple surgeries followed his return, yet recovery was incomplete. Lifting heavy objects remains impossible for him to this day. His injuries have not fully healed.
A Future Free from Exploitation
Syafi’i received compensation from the broker. It was about $6,000 for his injuries. Now unemployed and deeply traumatized, sharing his story has become his mission. His hope is to make other fishermen aware of the potential dangers. By sharing his experience, he aims to protect them from exploitation.
The Deceptive Reality of Life at Sea
Before accepting the job, he spoke with a friend. His friend said “life on a boat is work, eat, and sleep.” However, no one revealed the horrific conditions. The real conditions were hidden from vulnerable workers.
Crail: A Scottish Coastal Gem (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
March 14, 2025
(source: dailyrecord.co.uk – by Jessica Knibbs and Ambarish Awale)
Scotland is famous for its majestic Highlands. However, a small fishing village shines too. Crail has earned recognition as a UK coastal treasure. Indeed, its charm offers a classic seaside experience.
Seaside Delights Await
Imagine promenades, arcades, and colorful beach huts. Crail offers all of this and much more to visitors. Cobbled streets lead to its historic harbour area. The village exudes a nostalgic, yesteryear ambiance. It stands out as a beautiful coastal destination.
Survey Ranks Crail Highly
A survey by Which? gathered opinions. The survey included around 5,000 participants nationwide. Crail secured a place at number 12 on the list. This list presents the UK’s best coastal locations. It achieved an impressive score of 77 percent overall.
East Neuk’s Scenic Jewel
Crail nestles in Fife’s East Neuk area of Scotland. It is one of Scotland’s oldest Royal Burghs currently. Moreover, it is also renowned for its breathtaking scenery. Thus, this village has earned recognition fairly. Visitors find the clifftop view stunning above the harbour.
Harbour’s Heart of the Village
Fishing has always been crucial to Crail’s economy. The village’s fortunes are intertwined with its harbour. Therefore, the charm is evident in local offerings. Many visitors praise the fresh local seafood options.
Culinary Experiences Abound
Beyond the harbour, Crail invites exploration with open arms. Quaint streets, cozy pubs, and cafés await. The village boasts various eateries serving local seafood. Visitors may try Crail Capons, local herring, and haddock dishes.
Lobster and Crab Directly from the Sea
Crail offers a real taste of authentic coastal life. Seafood lovers can enjoy so many different things. Visitors can buy fresh seafood from Reilly’s Shellfish. It is a shack right by the harbour waterfront.
Treasures Around Every Corner
Walking is the best way to see Crail’s treasures fully. Each corner reveals a new delight to the senses. Grand stone houses and cottages create a charm. Winding sandstone alleys make this village special.
A Coastal Path Paradise
Crail is near Edinburgh, about 90 minutes by car. It is part of the Fife Coastal Path, spanning 117 miles. That path connects other charming villages nearby. Given its beauty, history, and charm, it is a top destination.
Research Concerns Arise in San Diego (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
March 15, 2025
(source: 10news.com – by Perla Shaheen)
Researchers in San Diego express growing concern. The issue stems from recent NOAA layoffs. These layoffs may negatively impact the California fishing industry. Thus, the future of sustainable fishing may be at stake.
Data Collection Prevents Overfishing
People often believe the ocean holds many fish. Scientists work hard every year to maintain this balance. They go into the ocean to collect important data. This data prevents overfishing in the region. The work is vital for the ecosystem.
Sustainable Fishing at Risk
Brice Semmens works at Scripps Institution of Oceanography. He states this data guides fishing limits. “Based on data, we know how many fish to catch,” said Semmens. Furthermore, the data shows how many to leave for future growth. Losing this work endangers the ocean’s health.
NOAA Staffing Cuts Create Uncertainty
The Trump administration mandated staffing reductions. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is also called NOAA. These cuts now place crucial research in jeopardy. Loss of research impacts Southern California’s economy greatly. The ocean acts as a valuable resource.
CalCOFI’s Vital Role
Semmens directs California Cooperative Oceanic Fisheries Investigations. The acronym CalCOFI represents the organization. This program monitors the ocean ecosystem. Scientists from Scripps and NOAA comprise it. The federal cutbacks recently led to layoffs. Many NOAA technicians lost their jobs. These technicians were crucial to CalCOFI’s operations.
Maintaining Continuity Amidst Challenges
Semmens asks, “What happens without the technicians?” Scripps Oceanography aims to address this challenge actively. It plans to onboard technicians temporarily. “We’re trying to hire them within Scripps,” stated Semmens. Funding sources remain unclear at this time. Maintaining program continuity is a critical priority.
Monitoring Chemical Impacts
The program has monitored chemicals as well. These chemicals ended up in the ocean after the Los Angeles fires. They also monitored the impacts on local wildlife. CalCOFI will proceed with its work moving forward. However, the long-term financial impact could prove substantial. The work protects the environment and local economy.
Exploitation Thrives in Zambian Fishing Villages (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
March 16, 2025
(source: msn.com – by Alicja Hagopian)
Poverty and drought devastate remote fishing villages in Zambia. Consequently, women and girls become victims of exploitation. Fishermen demand sex in exchange for fish. This predatory practice leaves women vulnerable.
“They Demand Sex,” Says Local Trader
Martha*, a fish trader, experienced this exploitation firsthand. “They don’t ask for money,” Martha explained. “They demand sex instead,” she continued. This reveals the harsh reality for women. It underscores their lack of economic power.
ActionAid’s Program Targeted Exploitation
Since 2023, ActionAid ran a program against exploitation. The program operated in Zambia’s Western Provinces. It aimed to protect vulnerable women and girls. They provided vital support against gender-based violence.
Trump’s Aid Cuts Crippled Vital Projects (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
However, Trump’s administration slashed foreign aid programs. These cuts crippled projects worldwide. These projects offered critical protection to women. The RISE program shut down immediately. This negatively impacted the women involved.
RISE Program Shut Down After Funding Freeze
The RISE program received funding from USAID via IUCN. It aimed to extend the project for two more years. Moreover, it planned to expand it across remote villages. However, Trump’s aid freeze caused panic. The program was protecting women and girls.
Loss of Aid Impacts Women Globally
The program’s loss highlights how women will suffer worldwide. It stems from the cuts to global aid. Millions are losing access to healthcare. This includes contraception and HIV care. Midwives are also affected.
Damaged Trust Hinders Future Programs (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
ActionAid Zambia’s director warns about the halt. She stresses that it damaged trust. Consequently, it hinders the ability to implement new programs. The sudden closure affected trust within the communities. It compromised future interventions.
Fish Trade Becomes Essential for Survival
Families depend on fish for income and food security. This applies specifically in the Western Province village. Recent droughts made farming unsustainable there. Therefore, the fish trade became vital. They need it to survive.
Droughts Increase Fish Scarcity
Ongoing droughts worsened the problem. Fish became increasingly scarce in the rivers. “Women lack purchasing power,” TembaTemba explains. “Refusing sex restricts their fish trade.” This creates a vicious cycle. Women are more vulnerable.
Fishermen Hold the Power (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
The men venture out to fish daily. The women buy and sell fish at the markets. They often camp overnight to access fish early. Men hold the resources in the remote villages. As such, women are forced into exploitative arrangements.
Vulnerability Leads to Violence and Disease
“The power lies with the fishermen,” TembaTemba explains. This creates perpetual vulnerability for women. It exposes them to violence and diseases. Also, women face risks of unwanted pregnancies.
Sex Demanded Instead of Payment
Men increase fish prices to unpayable levels. This forces women into sexual acts. Sometimes, they offer cheaper prices for sex. Furthermore, some fishermen refuse money altogether. Instead, they demand sexual favors.
Fishermen Lure Women Outside the Market (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
Fishermen lure women outside of the market. They falsely claim it is to “settle the transaction.” This creates a dangerous and secretive environment. It shields the abuse from public view. Women fear repercussions for speaking up.
“I Was Not Going to Get Any Fish”
Palekelo*, a woman in the ActionAid program, faced exploitation. “The fisherman told me to spend the night,” she said. “Otherwise, I was not going to get any fish.” Now, she’s in a watch group. They protect women from exploitation.
“It’s Not Easy for Me as a Woman”
Palekelo acknowledges the difficulties in the fish trade. “I’ve faced fear and difficulties,” she states. “It’s not easy for me as a woman,” she added. The exploitation underscores the imbalance.
Shame Prevents Reporting Sexual Assault (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
Consequences for women extend beyond the physical. Women face a culture of shame. This prevents them from reporting sexual assault. Many women hide their experiences. Rather than report it, they suffer in silence.
Divorce Can Be Ruinous
“You become a laughing stock,” TembaTemba adds. Husbands may also divorce their wives. This can be ruinous in this community. Divorced women face labels as “prostitutes.” Men control land and economic opportunities.
Men Control Land and Food Security
“Men are mostly the breadwinners,” TembaTemba states. “Most of the land is owned by men,” she added. Without land access, food security is affected. This adds to the vulnerability women experience.
Raising Awareness of Predatory Practices (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
Martha* raises awareness among fishermen and traders. She warns about the unspoken exploitation. “Sex for fish exchange is rampant,” Martha states. “We all know it, but it can’t be discussed openly.” She fights to break the silence.
Challenging Ingrained Exploitative Practices
Targeting these practices is challenging. ActionAid brought together community groups. This raised awareness of sexual exploitation. They created watch groups for women’s safety. They worked to keep women safe.
Addressing Harmful Gender Norms
The project trained women in negotiation tactics. It also aimed to protect them. Raising awareness among fishermen was a key goal. It sought to foster a culture of understanding. They hoped to promote positive masculinity.
Encouraging Women to Report Exploitation (Fishing News 20250310-20250316)
They strongly encouraged women to report exploitation. Collaboration with authorities was a crucial step. Local Christian groups also provided support. They created safe houses and refuges for women.
Gender-Based Violence Is Just the “Tip of the Iceberg”
In 2024, Zambia faced over 42,000 reported cases. ActionAid warns this is just the “tip of the iceberg.” They state the real problem is much larger. The problem is also far more pervasive.
Cuts Have Immediate and Severe Impact
The RISE project stopped abruptly. This puts the future of women in uncertainty. “The reckless decision to slash USAID funding has a severe impact,” said Niranjali Amerasinghe. This highlights the dire consequences.
Aid Must Be Restored Immediately
“This is not about efficiency,” Amerasinghe said. “It’s about callous disregard.” She continued stating it is driven by political maneuvering. “Aid must be restored immediately.” She urges for immediate action.
