Towards sustainable value chains for mackerel scad and tuna-like species in Cabo Verde - A ten-year upgrading strategy (2023–2033)
Cabo Verde is one of the Africa Small Island Developing States (SIDS) where fisheries make substantial contributions to achieving food security, creating employment, and increasing income. Fisheries production has increased significantly in the past decades while recent years showed capricious trends. Annual production reported around 11 600 tonnes in 2021, of which the most valuable species caught were tuna and pelagic fish (FAO, 2024). Fish and fish products are the main exports, estimated at around USD 31 million, comprising over 70 percent of the trade (ITC, 2024), with mostly canned tuna and mackerel. The social, economic, and environmental importance of fisheries extends to individuals and the society in the country.FAO SVC4SIDS project and the National Value Chain Task Force collaboratively developed a comprehensive 10-year strategy to upgrade key areas. This includes 10 projects, 24 outputs, and 36 activities, all designed to foster sustainable growth, enhance value addition, and improve the quality of economic activities. It aligns with the principles and objectives of Cabo Verde's Fisheries Resource Management Plan and the Policy Charter for the Blue Economy, focusing on resource sustainability, economic growth, employment, and social cohesion. Recognising the need for further funding and investment in these initiatives, the publication aims to garner support from development and donor partners.