Mauritania's fishing crisis threatens food security

Nouadhibou’s artisanal fishers are struggling as Mauritania’s rich fisheries face overexploitation. After a two-month ban, pirogues return to dwindling catches, with key species like sardinella—a vital protein source—in decline. Fishermen warn of empty nets, rising costs, and longer, riskier trips. Scientists blame unsustainable harvesting by local and foreign fleets. "No fish means disaster," says a fishermen’s leader. As stocks collapse, coastal communities and regional food security hang in the balance.