Ocean Basket and ABALOBI: Empowering Small-Scale Fishers with Sustainable Fishing
Ocean Basket and ABALOBI believe in the principle that one should never waste a crisis. For instance, when Ocean Basket introduced whole seabream to its menu two summers ago, they sold out completely within just six weeks. This remarkable success stemmed from offering a wider variety of seafood and encouraging South Africans to try whole fish—a more sustainable and less wasteful way to enjoy seafood.
Initially, Ocean Basket wanted to procure more seabream for the festive season. However, they encountered difficulties finding enough supply. That’s when Supply Chain Executive Marco Coelho recalled an idea he had considered: purchasing fish locally from small fishing communities. Although people had informed him that these communities didn’t catch enough fish, he decided to investigate further.
As a result, Coelho discovered ABALOBI, an organization engaged in exciting work.
What is ABALOBI?
ABALOBI—meaning “fisher” in Xhosa—is a South African organization dedicated to empowering small fishing communities to become stronger and more sustainable. Specifically, they achieve this by helping fishers earn more money, collaborate effectively, and utilize data to enhance their fishing practices. In this way, traditional fishers can fish responsibly while receiving fair compensation for their hard work.
In the Western Cape, fishermen typically rise early, head out on small boats, and return with their catch. However, they often face the challenge of selling their catch at the harbour for meager prices. Consequently, this situation leaves them without sufficient funds to purchase fuel for the next day or even keep some fish to feed their families.
Fortunately, ABALOBI is changing this dynamic. They collaborate with fishermen to build better tools and ensure that they can sell their catch at a fair price. As a result, this support enables them to earn more money and achieve greater independence. Moreover, it helps feed their families and supports the women in these communities.
Securing the Source with Ocean Basket and ABALOBI
In response to the supply challenges, Ocean Basket turned to Cape Bream, a fish similar to seabream that is caught in the same waters. They committed to paying a fair price, which remains consistent even when demand fluctuates. This approach has significantly benefited many fishing communities. Since early 2023, Ocean Basket has purchased nearly 28 tons of seabream from these fishers using low-impact handline fishing. Notably, this traditional fishing method is environmentally friendly.
Furthermore, the total money that has flowed directly to these communities amounts to almost R1.5 million. This figure ensures that the fishers, fish cleaners, and quality control teams are compensated fairly for their efforts.
Coelho, Ocean Basket’s Supply Chain Executive, has been inspired by the fishers’ deep connection to the ocean and their commitment to sustainable fishing practices. He states, “We’ve helped these fishers transition from uncertain sales to a steady, reliable income by paying a higher, fair price for their fish. At Ocean Basket, we believe in collaboration. By partnering with these hardworking fishers, we’ve enabled them to make positive changes in their lives.”
ABALOBI’s Role in a Sustainable Value Chain
Chris Kastern, Director of Growth at ABALOBI, emphasizes, “Our partnership with Ocean Basket illustrates the significance of a fair and transparent seafood supply chain. It demonstrates that responsible fishing can be both profitable and sustainable. By working together, businesses can support both people and the environment.”
Benefits for People and the Planet through Ocean Basket and ABALOBI
Moreover, this partnership makes it financially viable for fishers to focus on catching Cape Bream. The Southern African Sustainable Seafood Initiative (SASSI) awards this fish a green rating, indicating it is among the best and most sustainable seafood choices.
Consequently, Ocean Basket’s support for ABALOBI is creating positive change for the fishers and their communities. This assistance has reached 14 skipper households, 103 crew households, and 20 households of fish cleaners and quality control workers.
Preserving Cultural Traditions
In addition to economic benefits, Ocean Basket and ABALOBI’s initiatives are helping to protect the cultural traditions of these fishing communities. By making traditional fishing profitable, fishers can maintain their way of life without feeling compelled to abandon it due to financial pressures.
Looking Ahead for Ocean Basket and ABALOBI
Currently, 50% of Ocean Basket’s bream comes from ABALOBI fishers, and the company plans to increase this figure to 80%. While Cape Bream is the primary focus, they also explore other fish species, such as Yellowtail and Carpenter (Silvers). This effort highlights Ocean Basket’s broader commitment to supporting responsible fishing.
In conclusion, Ocean Basket and ABALOBI have demonstrated how businesses can help create economic, social, and environmental sustainability. As global sustainability becomes increasingly important, their partnership stands out as an exemplary model for supporting small-scale fishing communities and protecting the planet.
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