In Saint-Louis, Senegal, fishing once meant prosperity. Today, it is a fight for survival. Every morning, 25-year-old fisherman Gora Fall pushes his colorful canoe into the Atlantic. His words echo the frustration of many: “We once fished to thrive, now it’s just to survive.”
Gas Project Restrictions
The Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) gas project, led by BP with Kosmos Energy and national partners from Senegal and Mauritania, has created new barriers. A 500-meter exclusion zone around the offshore platform prevents access to the nearby Diattara reef, a traditional fishing ground.
As a result, catches are shrinking.
Economic Strain on Communities
Fishing powers 90% of Saint-Louis’ economy and supports over 60,000 direct jobs in Senegal. Indirectly, half a million people depend on it. Smaller hauls mean shrinking incomes. Fishermen who once earned up to $625 per trip now make as little as $90.
Women Bear the Burden
The crisis extends beyond the sea. Women who process and sell fish are losing work. Diamol Sène, a mother of 10, explained: “Fish are scarce and costly. We barely cover expenses.” Many women have already abandoned the trade.
Government and BP’s Response
Energy Minister Birame Souleye Diop urged in 2024 that gas development must not destroy fishing livelihoods. BP insists that exclusion zones are standard safety practice. The company downplays environmental risks, even after a February 2025 gas leak raised alarms about marine life.
Promises Still Unfulfilled
Fishermen accuse BP of neglecting commitments to build artificial reefs to offset the loss of Diattara reef. Of 12 proposed sites, only one was deemed viable, with completion expected by late 2025. Locals argue its location 4km from shore will not attract fish.
Environmental Concerns
Greenpeace Africa’s Mamadou Ba warned that leaks and industrial activity could permanently harm marine ecosystems. Despite reassurances, communities fear long-term depletion of fish stocks.
Why It Matters
The gas project boosts Senegal’s profile as an energy exporter. Yet, it threatens a centuries-old fishing tradition, pushing families into poverty. Some, like carpenter Saer Diop, have already left fishing behind to seek other jobs or consider migration.
What’s Next
As of October 2025, fishermen are demanding greater access and real reef solutions. Pressure is mounting on BP and the government to balance energy ambitions with the survival of local livelihoods.
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