On November 1st, during a routine dive at our coral nursery site, our diving team encountered a deeply troubling situation. They came across a canoe with fishermen carrying a large shark they had just killed. Concerned, the team followed the fishermen to the landing site on shore. To our dismay, we found them removing the shark's fins and cutting the rest of its body into pieces, witnessed by BMU-members and beach boys. Our first instinct was to document the incident for reporting and awareness purposes. However, the fishermen became hostile when they noticed our attempts. Based on their accents, it became apparent they were likely from Pemba (Tanzania), highlighting the cross-border challenges in marine conservation.
This incident underscores the urgent need for stronger enforcement of laws and greater awareness about marine conservation in Kenya. Sharks are not only vital to the balance of marine ecosystems, but many species are also endangered or vulnerable due to overfishing and illegal hunting practices like finning. Kenya has a legal framework in place to protect marine species, including sharks. The Fisheries Management and Development Act of 2016 regulates the management and sustainable use of fisheries resources, offering protection for sharks and other marine species. Additionally, the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act of 2013 prohibits actions that threaten the survival of endangered species, and the Constitution explicitly forbids the killing of such species.
On an international level, Kenya is a signatory to key agreements like the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). These agreements play a critical role in promoting the global conservation of shark populations and ensuring that illegal activities, such as the trade of shark fins, are restricted. Despite these laws and frameworks, enforcement remains a significant challenge, as evidenced by the incident we witnessed. Sharks are frequently hunted for their fins, meat, and other body parts, largely driven by a high demand in Asia. Without stronger local action and community involvement, these practices threaten to deplete shark populations, causing irreversible damage to marine ecosystems.
This incident highlights the importance of collaboration with local communities like the BMU's and Fisheries. As key stakeholders, their active participation in enforcing conservation laws and promoting sustainable practices is critical. AtReefo Divers Diani, we are committed to advocating for the protection of sharks and other marine species at the reef. Moving forward, we will soon organize a meeting with the BMU's and Fisheries to strengthen local awareness about the vital role sharks play in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems. Sharks are more than just marine predators—they are guardians of the delicate balance in our oceans. Losing them would have devastating effects, not only on marine biodiversity but also on the livelihoods of communities that depend on a thriving ocean.
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