Fisheries Monitoring Center (FMC)
The Seychelles Fisheries Authority (SFA) is committed to ensuring the sustainable management and conservation of the Seychelles’ marine resources. At the heart of this effort lies the Fisheries Monitoring Center (FMC), a state-of-the-art facility continuously monitoring fishing activities within the Seychelles Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
Mission and Objectives:
The primary mission of the FMC is to safeguard the Seychelles’ fisheries resources by providing real-time monitoring, control, and surveillance (MCS) of all fishing activities. The centre aims to:
1. Ensure Compliance: Monitor fishing vessels to ensure compliance with national and international fishing regulations.
2. Prevent Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing: Detect and deter unauthorized fishing activities within the Seychelles’ waters.
3. Support Sustainable Fisheries Management: Provide data and analysis contributing to sustainable fisheries practices and decision-making.
4. Enhance Maritime Safety: Monitor the safety and movements of vessels, ensuring prompt responses to emergencies.
Technology and Capabilities:
The FMC is equipped with advanced tracking systems that allow the real-time monitoring of vessels operating within the EEZ. The centre utilizes:
Automatic Identification System (AIS): This system tracks the movements of vessels in near real-time.
– Vessel Monitoring System (VMS): Mandated for all licensed fishing vessels, providing detailed reports on vessel positions, speed, and course.
– Satellite Imagery: To supplement AIS and VMS data, offering a broader view of activities within the EEZ.
– Radar Systems: For detecting and tracking vessels that may not transmit AIS or VMS signals.
Collaborative Efforts:
The FMC works closely with various local and international stakeholders, including the Coast Guard, the Ministry of Fisheries, regional fisheries organizations, and global maritime agencies. This collaborative approach ensures that the Seychelles’ waters remain one of the most well-regulated and protected in the world.
Achievements and Impact:
Since its inception, the FMC has been pivotal in reducing IUU fishing within the Seychelles EEZ. The data collected and analyzed by the FMC has informed policy decisions and contributed to the sustainable management of the fisheries sector. By preventing illegal activities and ensuring compliance with regulations, the FMC helps preserve marine biodiversity and supports the long-term viability of the fishing industry, which is vital to the Seychelles economy.
Looking Ahead:
The SFA is committed to continuously improving the FMC’s capabilities. Future enhancements include integrating more sophisticated data analytics tools, expanding the use of satellite surveillance, and increasing international collaboration to address the global challenge of IUU fishing.
The Fisheries Monitoring Center is a testament to the SFA’s dedication to sustainable fisheries management. It plays a crucial role in protecting the Seychelles’ rich marine resources for future generations.