On Thursday, the Ministry of Fisheries announced that the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) had decided to remove Senegal's protected status. This news was welcomed by the Union of Fisheries and Aquaculture Workers of Senegal (SYTRAPAS). According to the Union, this represents a "diplomatic and technical victory that reflects our country's commitment and competence."

In its press release signed by its Secretary General, Omar Dramé, the Union explains that Senegal's removal from the ICCAT's list of "non-cooperative" countries is the result of enlightened leadership and remarkable technical expertise.

"The Minister has brilliantly managed to rectify a complex situation, thus preserving the credibility of the Senegalese flag. Her expertise and mastery of the challenges of the fight against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing have reassured the international community and restored Senegal's image," he said.

Sytrapas also expressed its gratitude to the Minister for securing incentive bonuses, extending overtime to all contract workers in the ministry, providing significant support through a grant for the construction of the headquarters of the primary sector health mutual, and social initiatives for the well-being of employees.

“Since her appointment in April 2024, she has established a constructive and fruitful social dialogue. The application of the directives of the Head of State within the framework of the Social Stability Pact is resulting in an improvement in working conditions and an attentive listening to the concerns of the agents,” says Sytrapas.

Indeed, Senegal was identified in 2023 by ICCAT as a non-cooperative Contracting Party for failing to comply with certain conservation and management measures applicable to these resources. This identification followed several concerns raised during ICCAT's annual session.