“Learning Network,” Fourth Edition: Fishers from Arequipa Strengthen Knowledge, Management Skills, and Leadership
In Peru, according to the Ministry of Production (PRODUCE), more than 80,000 people depend directly on artisanal fishing, a key activity for food security and the local coastal economy. However, environmental changes, pressure on marine resources, and the need for better organization make it urgent to strengthen technical, organizational, and communication skills within fishing communities. In this context, collective learning spaces have become essential for building a more resilient and sustainable fishing sector.
Against this backdrop, from April 15 to 17, the fourth edition of the “Learning Network” was held in the province of Camaná (Arequipa), creating a space designed for the exchange of experiences and capacity building within the artisanal fishing sector.
© WWF-Perú
The event brought together more than 30 participants, both men and women, from various fishing communities along the Arequipa coastline. Over the course of three intensive days, participants engaged in dialogue and collaborative work aimed at strengthening their capacities and sharing experiences.
During the event, specialists from institutions such as the Camaná Coastal Laboratory of the Peruvian Sea Institute (IMARPE) and the Technological Institute of Production (ITP) – Ilo branch, shared key knowledge on the current state of benthic marine resources, their vulnerability to climate events such as El Niño, and the challenges facing the sector. They also helped strengthen participants leadership, teamwork, and effective communication skills, among other relevant capacities.
© WWF-Perú
“The methodology combined pre- and post-assessments to measure learning outcomes, together with participatory activities that encouraged integration among attendees. These activities also highlighted the growing participation of women in the fishing sector, reinforcing their role in decision-making and community management”, said Angela Hernando Blotte, Associate Officer for Local Community Empowerment at WWF Peru.
The “Learning Network” continues to establish itself as a platform that not only strengthens technical knowledge, but also promotes organization, leadership, and sustainability within fishing communities, fostering more informed and coordinated management among the sector’s different stakeholders.
In a context of climate change and increasing pressure on marine ecosystems, initiatives like this reaffirm that shared knowledge is one of the most powerful tools for securing the future of sustainable artisanal fishing in Peru.
