Senegal Fishermen Struggle Amid Gas Project

In Saint-Louis, Senegal, fisherman Gora Fall, 25, sets out daily in his colorful canoe, balancing hope and frustration.

“We once fished to thrive, now it’s just to survive,” he said, echoing the struggles of many in this fishing hub.

Gas Platform Impact

The Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) gas project, a joint venture led by BP with Kosmos Energy and national oil firms of Senegal and Mauritania, has restricted fishing near a natural reef.

A 500-meter exclusion zone around the platform, 10km offshore, limits access, reducing catches.

Economic Strain

Saint-Louis, with over 250,000 residents, relies on fishing for 90% of its economy. The UN estimates fishing supports 60,000 direct jobs and 500,000 indirect jobs in Senegal, contributing 3% to GDP.

Smaller catches mean less income, with fishermen earning $90 per trip compared to $445–$625 previously.

Women Affected

Women like Diamol Sène, a mother of 10 who processes fish, face job losses as catches dwindle. “Fish are scarce and costly. We barely cover expenses,” she said, noting many women have left the trade.

Government and BP Response

Senegal’s Energy Minister Birame Souleye Diop, in October 2024, called for balancing gas projects with fishing needs.

BP insists safety zones are standard and claims the project’s environmental impact is minimal. A February 2025 gas leak, quickly fixed, raised concerns about marine life.

Unmet Promises

Fishermen accuse BP of failing to deliver promised artificial reefs to replace the restricted Diattara reef.

Only one of 12 studied sites was deemed viable, with completion expected by late 2025. Fishermen say its planned 4km coastal location won’t attract fish.

Environmental Concerns

Greenpeace Africa’s Mamadou Ba warned that gas leaks could harm marine ecosystems. Despite BP’s assurances, locals fear long-term damage to fish stocks.

Why It Matters

The gas project, while boosting Senegal’s global energy role, threatens traditional fishing, pushing many like carpenter Saer Diop to seek other work or migrate.

What’s Next

In October 2025, fishermen demand better access and reef solutions, while the government and BP face pressure to balance energy gains with local livelihoods.

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