This investigation exposes a hidden network of Chinese control and ownership of many industrial fishing vessels operating in Ghanaian and Nigerian waters in contravention of local laws.
It shows how these Chinese companies commonly operate through “front” companies to obtain fishing licenses and with very minimal action from regulatory bodies, depriving these countries of revenue which could be invested in many deprived areas.
The story reveals the negative impact of illegal industrial fishing on the marine ecosystem and biodiversity in Ghana and Nigeria and the significant economic toll on artisanal fishers.
And it highlights how current laws in both countries have been rendered ineffective through years of non-enforcement serving as a boost to illegal, unreported and unregulated IUU fishing.
Read more: iWatchAfrica, NewsWireNGR, West Africa Business and Financial Times (in print on front page)