Behind the scenes of ABALOBI’s mission to transform small-scale fisheries lies a group of unsung heroes: the Post-Harvest Quality Control (PHQC) workers. These individuals, primarily women, are integral to ensuring that seafood is handled with care, quality, and sustainability in mind. However, their work hasn’t always been valued fairly or protected adequately - so ABALOBI stepped in.

Addressing Wage Discrepancies

In the past, PHQC workers faced significant wage discrepancies, which varied depending on the community they worked in and the species of fish they handled. The lack of a standardised payment structure left many women under compensated for their critical work. Furthermore, there were no safety nets in place to protect them if they were injured on the job - an unfortunate reality in a physically demanding role.

ABALOBI’s Interventions

Recognising the inequities, ABALOBI took decisive action to ensure fair pay and workplace protections for PHQC workers. The organisation introduced standardised wage structures, aligning pay rates across regions and species to eliminate inconsistencies. Whether a worker is handling snoek, harder, or other species, they now receive equitable compensation for their labor.

But ABALOBI didn’t stop there. Understanding the risks involved in post-harvest work, ABALOBI introduced a comprehensive insurance policy for all independent contractors. This includes coverage for:

Injury compensation for temporary or permanent disabilities.
Medical expenses for workplace injuries, up to R50,000.
Death benefits for families, providing R50,000 in the event of a fatal accident.

Empowering Women and Their Communities

These advancements go beyond just financial stability - they represent a commitment to the dignity and safety of women in small-scale fisheries. By ensuring that PHQC workers are compensated fairly and protected from workplace risks, ABALOBI is fostering a culture of equity and empowerment within fishing communities.

Today, PHQC workers can perform their duties with greater confidence, knowing that ABALOBI stands with them. Their contributions to sustainable seafood systems are not only acknowledged but valued as essential.

This set a powerful precedent for how organisations can support women in fisheries. By providing meaningful protections, ABALOBI is creating a ripple effect of positive change across coastal communities.