Kenya’s coastal and marine ecosystems are among the most diverse and productive in the Western Indian Ocean. These ecosystems sustain livelihoods, food security, biodiversity, and economic development. However, small-scale fishers particularly women and marginalized groups continue toface challenges including limited participation in decision-making, weak institutional representation,inadequate knowledge of fisheries rights, and limited influence in national policy processes.
CANCO’s Marine & Fisheries Programme responds to these challenges through a rights-based,inclusive, and sustainability-driven approach.
Our work is aligned with:
We promote human rights-based fisheries governance, inclusive participation, gender equity, and sustainable marine resource management.
CANCO works to strengthen Beach Management Units (BMUs), fisher associations, and coastal civil society networks to improve co-management and policy engagement.
We:
We amplify the voice of small-scale fishers to ensure their rights, livelihoods, and contributions are recognized and protected.
Healthy oceans are the foundation of sustainable livelihoods.
CANCO promotes:
Through partnerships with national and international institutions—including research institutions and regional fisher networks—we contribute to stronger marine protection and ecosystem recovery.
CANCO has played a catalytic role in:
Actively contributed to the development of fisheries strategies and national sector reforms.
Organized and participated in high-level dialogues on sustainable small-scale fisheries and the Blue Economy.
Founded in 2008, CANCO champions good governance, democratic rights, and sustainable resource use.
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