Ten elderly artisanal fishermen who practiced fishing without the aid of technology, have been recognised for their role, effort and devotion in developing this sector of Seychelles’ fisheries industry.

In a short ceremony at State House, Seychelles’ President Wavel Ramkalawan, and the fisheries minister, Jean-Francois Ferrari, presented the fishers, most of whom have retired, or their representatives, with a token of recognition. This was a shield in the form of a miniature fish trap.

The ceremony was also one of two activities planned to mark the end of the island nation’s fisheries week, which was being celebrated from November 21 through to November 25.

In his address to the press, Ferrari outlined that as the United Nations General Assembly has declared 2022 the International Year of Artisanal Fisheries and Aquaculture, it was only fitting to recognise the contribution of fishermen of yesteryears to the industry.

“They are the ones who developed fisheries in Seychelles. We are talking about the time before tuna fishing or even industrial fishing. We are talking about fishing in a canoe, operated through the use of oars or sails. A lot of these men present today have worked all their lives in the fishing industry and have helped feed this nation,” said Ferrari.