May 2024 marked a significant milestone for ABALOBI and the communities we serve. With food security and the empowerment of local communities being at the forefront of our initiatives, we invested R35,410 in purchasing 425 units of Snoek from Skipper Wilfred Poggenpoel, affectionately known as ‘Skipper Poggie’ in the community. These Snoek will all be dedicated to enhancing food security within fisher communities, as we will stockpile the Snoek so that it can be sold during the off season and used to sustain local communities when the Snoek supplies run dry. This initiative not only provides affordable, quality fish but also strengthens local economies and sustains traditional fishing practices.
The Journey of Snoek: From Catch to Community
The Snoek's journey begins the moment it lands on our shores. Our fisher cleaners, led by the experienced Rosie Shoshola, ensure each fish is prepared to perfection. We have worked extensively with local communities to ensure the highest level of health and safety standards are adhered to during this process.
Among the batches of fish, we occasionally encounter "pap Snoek". Rosie and her team employ indigenous knowledge to salvage these fish, ensuring nothing goes to waste. These Snoek find new life as fish cakes and fish paste, providing nutritious meals for local children.
Community Impact and Economic Benefits
Our operations have a profound impact on the community. Seven fish cleaners and four wrappers/quality checkers are employed to handle these tasks. Their dedication ensures a seamless process from catch to consumer. The benefits of our program extend beyond employment, due to our affordable Snoek prices, local stores have reduced their prices by R20, making this nutritious fish more accessible to the community. The success of this initiative has attracted more boats, eager to make their contribution.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Opportunities
Skipper Poggie suggested expanding our scope during the Snoek season to include Gurnard and stockpiling it for the West Coast Rock Lobster season. This move could protect fishers from exorbitant bait prices. Additionally, he proposed that ABALOBI consider supplying bait to the South and West Coast for Sardine and Pike, addressing another critical need in the fishing community. Our team continues to work closely with the community and take suggestions like these to heart, working together to continually enhance our offerings to local communities so that they are not so severely impacted by the seasonality of fishing.
Conclusion
Our partnership with Skipper Poggie and the dedication of our community members highlight the transformative power of sustainable practices and community-focused initiatives. As we continue to navigate challenges and explore new opportunities, our commitment to food security, economic empowerment, and the preservation of traditional fishing practices remains unwavering. Together, we are not just securing food; we are securing futures.