Department of Ichthyology and Fisheries Science (DIFS), Rhodes University, South Africa

The Department of Ichthyology & Fisheries Science at Rhodes University in South Africa, established in 1981, offers degrees in Ichthyology & Fisheries Science. The African Union Centre of Excellence provides undergraduate, honors, MSc, and PhD programs. The department collaborates with 33 universities and over twenty nations, and has close ties to industry.

Activities Undertaken

Advancing Fisheries Data and Climate Resilience in Africa
Rhodes University is enhancing sustainable fisheries management in Africa by collecting critical data and understanding climate impacts. The initiative aims to gather comprehensive information on fish stocks across five African regions. The procurement process is relaunching to secure a qualified partner. The University of Rhodes, South Africa, has completed a study assessing the economic value of ecosystem goods and services and analyzing climate change's impact on fisheries and aquaculture. The next steps include an expert workshop to produce a biennial report and training sessions for stakeholders. These initiatives aim to advance sustainable practices and foster data-driven regional management.

Driving the Future of African Fisheries and Aquaculture Through Foresight Studies
Foresight studies were conducted in 2023 to address critical issues in African fisheries and aquaculture, including food security, per capita fish consumption, climate change impacts, and gender mainstreaming. These studies provide a forward-looking perspective, helping stakeholders anticipate future trends and develop strategies. A workshop was held in October 2023 to validate the findings, and the findings were widely disseminated at events like the African Small-Scale Fisheries Summit and the FAO COFI36 event. As the reports undergo translation and publication, they will be distributed more broadly, shaping decision-making and strategic actions across Africa and globally. These studies have positioned fisheries and aquaculture at the heart of broader discussions on sustainable development and climate resilience.

Documenting Best Practices for Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture Development
The University of Rhodes has documented key lessons and best practices in the fisheries and aquaculture value chain. Key lessons include building institutions to support value chain development, understanding the entire value chain, shifting focus from policy and projects to long-term programs, and including women in the value chain. The findings have been compiled into an advocacy note, emphasizing the importance of institutionalizing a value chain approach for successful fisheries and aquaculture development in Africa. This holistic approach, involving strong institutions, informed policies, and gender equity, is crucial for unlocking the full potential of the sectors.

Tracking Fisheries and Aquaculture Performance: Annual Snapshots for Southern and Eastern African Regions
Work is underway with Rhodes University's Department of Ichthyology and Fisheries Science to develop annual performance snapshot reports for the Eastern and Eastern African regions. The goal is to give extensive assessments of fisheries and aquaculture performance, thereby promoting data-driven governance and identifying regional concerns and possibilities. The DIFS uses a complete approach that includes qualitative and quantitative research techniques, such as indicator selection, data gathering, analysis, and regional focus. Annual performance snapshots, identification of regional patterns, policy formulation evidence, and improved regional cooperation are among the expected outcomes. The consulting is an important component of FishGov2's plan to enhance fisheries and aquaculture governance across Africa, as it provides a useful tool for assessing progress, tracking difficulties, and identifying solutions to strengthen the sector's sustainability. The findings will be utilised to fine-tune plans, improve policy coherence, and integrate regional and national initiatives with the PFRS and AU Agenda 2063, resulting in a more open, accountable, and sustainable fisheries and aquaculture sector.

Economic Valuation of Ecosystem Goods and Services and the Impact of Climate Change on Fisheries and Aquaculture
A comprehensive economic valuation study conducted by the Department of Ichthyology and Fisheries Science at Rhodes University, aimed to assess the economic value of ecosystem goods and services provided by Africa's fisheries and aquaculture sectors, particularly the impact of climate change. The study aimed to capture the value of ecosystem services such as biodiversity, water purification, carbon sequestration, and fisheries production, which are often overlooked in traditional economic assessments. Climate change is affecting these sectors, particularly in terms of shifts in fish populations, increased vulnerability to extreme weather events, and implications for food security and livelihoods. The findings were aimed at informing policy decisions that could help mitigate the negative effects of climate change on fisheries resources and aquaculture industries, ensuring sustainable and resilient practices are implemented across the continent. Key findings revealed that fisheries and aquaculture contribute significantly to Africa's economy, not only through direct revenues from fish production but also through indirect benefits from the ecosystems they depend on. The study recommends enhanced climate resilience, policy integration, increased investment in climate-related research and data collection, and stakeholder engagement to develop inclusive solutions that address the challenges posed by climate change.

Promoting Coherent African Positions in AU-EU Dialogue on Fisheries and Aquaculture: A Study in Progress
A consultancy is being conducted aimed at promoting coherent African positions in international dialogues between the African Union (AU) and the European Union (EU). The study focuses on preparing materials related to EU initiatives and providing recommendations for AU Member States to articulate coherent positions during AU-EU dialogues.
Key areas of focus include mapping EU fisheries and aquaculture initiatives, assessing AU MS needs and priorities, proposing actionable recommendations for AU MS on how to articulate unified positions during AU-EU dialogue, and providing strategic communication for AU-EU meetings. The methodology employed includes stakeholder consultations, research and analysis, workshops and feedback loops, and knowledge dissemination.

The expected outcomes include a comprehensive mapping report, policy recommendations for AU Member States on how to articulate unified positions during AU-EU dialogues, development of communication materials, and strengthened AU-EU engagement. This study contributes to enhancing Africa's visibility and influence in global fisheries governance, ensuring that African countries are well-prepared to engage with EU partners in discussions impacting fisheries sustainability, economic development, and food security. The recommendations and communication materials generated will provide African policymakers with the necessary tools to advocate for policies aligned with AU Agenda 2063 and international best practices, ultimately contributing to more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable fisheries and aquaculture practices in Africa.

Documenting Lessons Learned and Best Practices for Transforming Africa's Fisheries and Aquaculture Sector
The Department was commissioned to document lessons learned and best practices for transforming Africa's fisheries and aquaculture sector. The consultancy used a comprehensive literature review, case studies, stakeholder consultations, a best practice framework, and knowledge product development to provide actionable insights. The final report, accompanied by user-friendly guides, policy briefs, and toolkits, aimed to strengthen future efforts in fisheries and aquaculture governance across Africa. The consultancy delivered valuable outputs, including thorough documentation, validated best practices, and knowledge products. The impact of the consultancy is informing decision-making, improving policy frameworks, and identifying replicable solutions. The consultancy has generated a rich knowledge base that will inform future interventions, ensuring they are grounded in proven success and tailored to Africa's unique context. By applying these lessons, Africa can create a more resilient, sustainable, and prosperous fisheries and aquaculture sector, fostering long-term food security and economic growth.