Turning the Tide-The inspiring story of Kismayo’s Fishing Community

 Breaking the Net of Poverty: How Kismayo’s Fishers Are Charting a New Course

For decades, the fishing communities of Kismayo struggled against the odds—outdated equipment, unpredictable weather, and a fragile market. The sea, once their greatest asset, became a relentless challenge. However, thanks to the Response Initiative for Somalia Emergencies (RISE), these resilient fishermen and women have found renewed hope.

From Scarcity to Stability

“Before this project, fishing was a gamble. We had no proper storage, no modern equipment, and our fish would often spoil before reaching the market. Now, everything has changed.”

Forty-year-old Aden Mohamed Ibrahim, chairman of the Kiamboni Fishermen Cooperative, recalls the difficult days when their income was barely enough to sustain their families.

Through funding from IFAD, the RISE project, implemented by Sadar Development Institute, equipped the fishing cooperatives in Kismayo with modern engines, fishing nets, cold storage facilities, and safety gear. This has not only boosted fish production but also eliminated wastage, allowing fishermen to bring fresh fish to local markets and beyond.

“Previously, I had to dry my fish and sell it to neighboring countries. Now, I can sell fresh fish in local markets. The difference in income is life-changing—my children no longer face school fee issues, and our household is financially secure.”

His cooperative, consisting of 21 members, operates on a rotation system, ensuring that everyone gets a chance to work and benefit from the equipment.

Women Leading the Blue Economy

It is a new dawn for women in the fishing industry in Kismayo. Although women were not traditionally considered active players in the sector, some trailblazers are changing the narrative.

Among the fishing community’s unsung heroes is Fatuma Magan Nur Abdi, a veteran fisherwoman who has worked in the industry for over 13 years. For Fatuma, the introduction of boats, freezers, and processing equipment has transformed her life.

“Before, I was forced to work under middlemen. I had no choice but to sell my catch at whatever price they dictated. Now, I have my own boat, my own storage, and my own market access. I decide my future!” 

This newfound independence has led to economic empowerment for women in Kismayo, allowing them to break free from financial dependence and invest in their businesses.

Another trailblazer for women is 30-year-old Fardowsa Jeylani Mohamed, a treasurer at Hibo Fish Cooperative, who shares a similar story. She started her journey by salting fish for resellers, but today, she runs her own fish restaurant.

“We used to only process fish with salt because we couldn’t store it. Now, we have refrigeration and proper facilities. Instead of waiting for people to bring fish to me, I buy it myself and cook fresh meals for customers.”

Her cooperative saved small monthly contributions until they could open their own fish restaurant, offering employment opportunities for other community members.

A Future Beyond Survival

Beyond daily sustenance, these fishermen and women are dreaming big. Many, like Fatuma, are looking towards international exports, aiming to supply high-quality tuna fish to global markets.

“If we can get faster boats and better storage, we can sell our fish to buyers outside Somalia. That is my dream.”

With household incomes increasing by 82.8%, asset ownership rising by 80.3%, and women’s empowerment at 73%, across various sectors in Somalia, the RISE project has not only uplifted individual lives but also revived Kismayo’s fishing economy.

However, these communities know that growth is an ongoing journey. They hope for larger cold storage facilities, more efficient fishing vessels, and expanded market access to further enhance their trade.

“Fishing is not just a job. It is our way of life. With the right support, we can rebuild our communities, educate our children, and take Somalia’s fishing industry to new heights.” – Aden Mohamed Ibrahim.

As the sun sets over the shores of Kismayo, these resilient fishermen and women are no longer just battling the waves; they are riding the tide of opportunity, growth, and prosperity.