Gabon Boosts Marine Surveillance with US — backed Training. LIBREVILLE, Gabon — 12 March 2026 Lead Paragraph: The Gabonese Agency for National Parks (ANPN) has enhanced its marine surveillance capabilities through a recent training program, supported by the US Embassy and the environmental organization WildAid.
The initiative, aimed at 30 agents from the National Fisheries Department, is part of a broader effort to combat illegal fishing and protect marine ecosystems.
The training, which wrapped up recently, was a comprehensive program that covered both theoretical and practical aspects of marine conservation. Participants, including inspectors, conservationists, and eco-guards, were equipped with knowledge on legal procedures, mission preparation, patrol techniques, and operational data mapping.
The training was led by legal expert Stessy Ndinga, George Wilson, and Laurence Wozniaz, a specialist in digital data collection tools.
The training focused on addressing common infractions observed in marine protected areas, such as the establishment of fishing camps in national parks, the capture of fully protected species, and the use of prohibited fishing gear in marine parks.
The ANPN noted these issues in a published statement, emphasizing the importance of effective control and surveillance at sea. Gabon’s President, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, has made the fight against illegal fishing and the sustainable protection of marine protected areas a priority.
The training initiative is seen as a significant step towards achieving these goals. Further details about the outcomes of the training and future surveillance efforts are expected to be released by the ANPN in the coming days. For now, the training marks a significant stride in Gabon’s commitment to preserving its marine environment.
