Hadhramout Governorate is a vast and historic region located in the eastern part of Yemen, stretching from the Arabian Sea coast deep into the desert interior. For generations, families in Mukalla district of Hadhramout and surrounding districts have relied on the sea to survive. Yet, for many fishermen, the lack of modern skills and safety knowledge has made life increasingly difficult.
Hamad, a fisherman from Mukalla, knows these challenges all too well. “Before the training, we depended on old methods passed down from our fathers,” he recalls. “We didn’t know how to handle fish properly or keep ourselves safe at sea. Many of us lost income because our catch spoiled before reaching the market.”
CARE, in partnership with GIZ[1] and funded by BMZ[2], implemented the Strengthening Capacities and Diversifying Livelihoods of Fishermen and Women in the Fisheries Sector in Hadhramout project. A total of 3,750 fishermen have been reached through this project, aiming to improve economic opportunities, enhance food security, and promote sustainable fishery practices.
Hamad joined training sessions focused on fish handling, post-harvest techniques, and safety at sea. These sessions introduced modern practices that were previously unknown to many local fishermen. “We learned how to use fishing tools better and identify areas rich in fish,” Hamad says. “It was challenging but extremely valuable.”
