Angola Elasmo Project.

Why it is important to support this project:

Angola Coast – Productive and full of life

Angola’s coastal waters are extremely productive. Numerous species of sharks and rays reside here either year-round or at certain times (e.g., as juveniles), some of which are considered critically endangered.

Unregulated Fishing Meets Endangered Species

In a country marked by political instability, civil wars, and poverty, it is not surprising that local fisheries are poorly, if at all, monitored. What species are caught, in what quantities, and where they are caught is hardly known, as is what happens to the captured animals.

What is noticeable, however, is the number of endangered sharks and rays that appear in local markets. On one hand, this is a reason for celebration, as some of these species are found only in a few areas of West Africa, but on the other hand, it is a cause for concern. Unregulated and unmonitored, even artisanal subsistence fishing can pose a significant threat to shark and ray species, particularly due to their very slow reproductive rates.

Hand in Hand

Ana Lucia Soares, the leader of the Angola Elasmo Project, is addressing this threat. Ana Lucia focuses primarily on close collaboration with the local population.

Fishing is an important livelihood locally. Together, we want to seek solutions that ensure the survival of both commercial and endangered species while allowing people to support their families.

Baseline study

In the initial phase of the project, the focus was on determining what, how much, and where is being caught, and what happens to the catches. Interviews with local fishermen revealed that sharks are mainly considered bycatch and are unwanted, as they often get caught in nets and damage them. To accurately identify the caught animals, Ana Lucia also collects genetic samples. These data are essential for appealing to political authorities later on.

More protection through knowledge

Another central aspect of the project is building capacity and understanding of the issue. From the political stage to the local radio station, Ana Lucia’s workshops and lectures have been a great success. In recent years, the project’s influence and perception have grown significantly. On-site, she is supported by a team of local volunteers.

The long-term goal of SHARKPROJECT and Ana Lucia is not only to change local awareness but also to find practical solutions, such as improved fisheries monitoring and management.

Why your support matters?

Like many people in conservation, Ana Lucia works unpaid. For much of the year, she works in other fields to afford her stays and work as a conservationist. We believe this should not be the case! With your help, we want to ensure that Ana Lucia can continue to sustainably advocate for sharks in the future.