‘Small-Scale Fisheries in Africa: A Regional Portrait’ aims at presenting what small-scale fisheries in Africa look like, how important they are to the livelihoods of millions of people in the continent, and the challenges they are facing, through the contribution of case study profiles by researchers and practitioners engaged in this region. By highlighting the various characteristics shaping the small-scale fisheries in Africa and how they differ between sub-regions of the continent, the e-book offers a unique glimpse into the life of small-scale fishing communities, as well as bring to fore a much needed discussion about what needs to be done to engender the sustainability and viability of small-scale fisheries across the big land.

Part I of the e-book provides a regional overview of small-scale fisheries in Africa, portraying their importance and diversity, as well the vulnerabilities and challenges they face.

Part II presents a plethora of case study profiles, displaying information on ecosystem type, main gear, target species, number of fishers and vessels, as well as key rules and regulations, governance modes, and main challenges and opportunities related to small-scale fisheries in various locations.

The e-book concludes with Part III, where we provide recommendations for a viable and sustainable future for small-scale fisheries in Africa. In addition to the publication as part of TBTI Global Book Series, which is downloadable, information about the case studies is freely available via ISSF (https://issfcloud.toobigtoignore.net/).

Small-scale fisheries in Africa – a regional portrait is a fourth book published under TBTI Global Book Series. This publication series aims to highlight why we need to pay close attention to small-scale fisheries. The series will be of use to anyone interested in learning more about small-scale fisheries, especially about their important contribution to livelihoods, well-being, poverty alleviation and food security, as well as to those who are keen to help raise profile of small-scale fisheries in the policy realm.