WildAid Africa 91d ago

Cédric Batoto Axel has worked as an industrial fishing observer in Gabon for more than a decade. His role involves not only collecting data on fishing vessels operating in Gabon’s waters, but also educating and encouraging ship’s captains to fish responsibly. His role sometimes brings him into conflict with those captains, when he sees boats breaking the law by fishing in protected areas, fishing without permits or catching protected species. But he believes passionately that fishing has to be sustainable, to protect nature and conserve resources for future generations. “The work of an observer is not an easy job,” he says, “but I would say it is one of the most beautiful professions. The motivation mainly comes from knowing we are doing something good.” Cédric says he has felt a deep innate connection with the sea ever since he was a child and he is passionate about protecting the oceans. “The oceans are our future, but at the same time they are also becoming the past, because what happens at sea is far from sight,” he says. “The oceans are emptying in indifference and in silence, which is precisely why we need observer programs.” “I invite people to take an interest, because if we do not take an interest in something it will disappear --- and we will not have had time to appreciate all its beauty and splendour.”