BRAVA: FISHERMEN ONCE AGAIN DEMAND EQUIPMENT TO PROTECT THEIR BOATS

Fishermen from the towns of Fajã d’Água, Furna, and Lomba, on the island of Brava, are once again drawing attention to a problem that directly affects the safety of their boats and the livelihoods of many families: the lack of adequate equipment to haul the boats out of the water and protect them, especially when weather conditions worsen. 

In statements to Inforpress, fishing professionals called on the government to install boat trawlers in fishing zones, noting that this infrastructure is essential for reducing losses and ensuring better working conditions.

LACK OF CONDITIONS AND RISK OF LOSS

In Fajã d’Água, Helena Baptista, the owner of a fishing boat, explained that fishermen have only a makeshift ramp, which does not provide sufficient safety guarantees when the sea is rough.

The fisherwoman advocates for urgent action, emphasizing that fishermen need adequate conditions to protect their boats.

In Furna, Reinaldo Martins, a representative of the local fishing community, stated that the installation of a boat trawler is a long-standing demand, which, according to him, has been repeatedly promised but never actually carried out.

During the rainy season and when the sea is roughest, the situation becomes even more concerning. The force of the waves can wash rocks onto the beaches, making it difficult for boats to enter and exit and increasing the risk of property damage and accidents.

Fishermen in Lomba face similar difficulties and are joining the call for better conditions in the island’s fishing zones.

PROTECTING THE BOATS MEANS PROTECTING FAMILIES’ LIVELIHOODS

For many families in Brava, fishing is not just an economic activity. It is their main source of income and a way to ensure food and daily sustenance.

When a vessel is damaged or cannot safely go out to sea, the consequences go beyond material losses. They can mean days without work, loss of income, and hardships for families who depend directly on this activity.

For this reason, the installation of boat haulers and the construction of adequate ramps should not be viewed as secondary projects. They are important investments in the safety of fishermen, the protection of their equipment, and the continuity of fishing activities.

The demands of the professionals in Brava also raise a question worth considering: How many times do fishing communities have to repeat the same requests before they get concrete answers?

Fishermen need more than just promises. They need lasting solutions, planning, and infrastructure tailored to the conditions of each locality.

Cape Verde’s development also depends on coastal communities and all those who, day after day, face the risks of the sea to provide for their families.

Brava deserves attention, and its fishermen deserve decent and safe working conditions.

Because protecting fishermen also means protecting the local economy and the future of communities that depend on fishing.

Source: Inforpress