Pierson VOATAHY

THE VOICE OF FISHERMEN

VOI Miray hina - Mahajanga 2, Boeny Region

PIERSON – THE VOICE OF FISHERMEN

“I used to be just another fisherman using non-compliant gear, but that changed when I was elected president of the fishermen association in 2020.”

Meet Pierson, the president of the MIRAY HINA Ambodimadiro fishermen's association, in Mahajanga 2. His journey is fascinating—once a fisherman using harmful gear that endangered the ocean, Pierson is now a passionate ocean defender. We asked him to share his story and what led him to embrace the importance of sustainable fishing.

“I’m an ocean defender, committed to protecting our natural resources. I used to be just another fisherman using non-compliant gear, but that changed when I was elected president of the fishermen association in 2020. Now, I lead the fight to protect the ocean and educate others about the dangers of harmful fishing practices. I know a few fishermen who share my commitment, and I’ve encouraged others to join the cause. We’ve grown our association to over 100 members, but only about twenty of them truly follow the standards. Before becoming who I am today, I was inspired by some incredible people. The village chiefs, Olobe and Sojabe, along with some of the younger members of our association, have all played a significant role in shaping my journey.”

Since becoming an ocean defender, Pierson has experienced his fair share of ups and downs. Without hesitation, he shared one of his challenging misadventures as an ocean hero.

“As a leader fighting against the use of illegal fishing equipment, I’ve faced many challenges. I reported these issues to our partners, who then informed the authorities. One day, fisheries supervisors came to check on the use of banned equipment, like the “Malira” nets, which are too small and harm young fish, and “Treko” tools used for collecting crabs. They gathered the fishermen to ask about these practices. While I couldn’t answer their questions directly, I admitted that this equipment was in use, though I was afraid to speak up openly. During their inspection, the supervisors found fishermen using illegal gear during the closed season and reprimanded them. A few days later, some people in the community, upset by this, tried to burn down my house, forcing me to flee for two weeks. I told the mayor what happened, and he advised me to return and address the issue. Even now, those unhappy with my actions continue to harass me. Despite these challenges, I choose to continue my work to protect the ocean, as it is our primary source of income. Moreover, it's crucial that we ensure future generations inherit a healthy and thriving ocean.”

The ocean is home to many species, many of which are rare and endangered. When Pierson was asked to choose one species he would particularly like to protect, he didn't hesitate and named three.

"First, I would choose the 'Kilandy,' a type of white bird that lives near the edge of the sea. Their habitat is often considered precious, even sacred, making it crucial to protect them. ‘Kilandy’ species are few in number and are also protected species. We've designated their habitat, located in the village of Ambodimadiro, as a protected area.
Second, I would choose a place called 'AMPANDRIAMPANIHY,' where bats live. This area is protected because it provides income for our association through tourism activities.
And finally, I would also choose to protect the mangroves. They are home to many species, sequester carbon, and provide incredibly pure air for all living things."

Pierson is deeply concerned about the dangers posed by unsustainable fishing techniques, and he has chosen this path as his life's mission. When asked to share one of his notable achievements as an ocean defender committed to combating harmful fishing practices, he proudly recounted:

"I used large-scale awareness-raising techniques as a community agent in our village. I explain to others that using non-compliant equipment, such as nets smaller than 25 millimeters, mosquito nets, 'Malira,' and 'Treko,' destroys marine species and damages their eggs, which could eventually lead to their extinction. Thanks to these efforts, some people have changed their practices and joined me in the fight, but unfortunately, there are still those who persist in their illegal activities due to financial interests."

The work Pierson has chosen to do is far from easy, and gaining government support is not always guaranteed, even when the results are impressive. On this topic, he discussed the main challenges he faces in fulfilling his responsibilities.

“When I report problems, they often go unaddressed, and I receive no feedback. Additionally, because our village is remote, I don’t always have the resources or know where to send my reports to ensure they are taken seriously and resolved. I also need my work to be recognized so that support can come my way. For instance, having a certificate or badge proving that I’m an ocean defender would demonstrate my commitment to protecting the ocean to others. Additionally, being an ocean defender is a high-risk job, and we need insurance, whether for safety or illness. Carrying a fisherman’s card would also help, making us easily recognizable to fishing supervisors. Moreover, ocean defenders need free access to healthcare in case they are hurt because of their job. They need health centres that recognize and heal them without asking something in return. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, we need equipment that meets our needs—tools that are both efficient and adapted to the challenges we face. If all these problems were resolved, I’m confident that many more people would be eager to become ocean defenders.”

PIERSON, pirogues

To conclude our discussion with Pierson, we asked him to share a message for both ocean criminals and ocean defenders.

“First, to the ocean criminals, I encourage them to protect the ocean because it’s our main source of income and food. With few other job options in our area, preserving marine ecosystems is crucial for our survival. Second, to the ocean defenders, I encourage you to keep going—don’t get discouraged and don’t give up! Keep protecting the ocean, no matter the challenges you face.”

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