Somalia has the longest coastline on the mainland. The country had a number of fishing hubs. Tuna, lobster, and other high value marine stock were harvested locally for the domestic and international seafood markets.

The fisheries sector in Somalia is very important: on the one hand, it guarantees the production of hard currency for the State through the export of fish and fishery products, on the other hand, it provides jobs to many disadvantaged communities, including traditional fishermen, internally displaced people and former livestock keepers. Many former cattle farmers have gone fishing after losing their livestock during droughts. For many fishermen, fishing is the only income for the family. The lack of alternative markets and the absence of competition have a negative impact on the income of fishermen.

There is a real need to promote local markets as fish is an excellent nutritious and inexpensive alternative to meat. In addition, with the exception of a few fish species, Somalia does not sell seafood on the international market due to logistical problems, lack of a certification system and lack of quality. There are also no guidelines or supervisory authorities. Karlo’s efforts in Somalia therefore aimed at strengthening local authorities and improving living conditions in rural areas. The animal production and fisheries sectors is necessary for pastoralists and poor and disadvantaged communities to secure their food supply.