New satellite tracking targets illegal fishing off Africa’s coast

Illegal fishing in African waters continues to cause significant economic losses, estimated between US$11 billion and US$13 billion annually. A recent interception in July 2026 by Gabon’s patrol boat of three unlicensed trawlers inside the Grand Sud Reserve highlights the ongoing challenge.

According to Global Fishing Watch, most industrial fishing vessels evade public tracking by switching off their automatic identification system transponders. This self-reporting system remains the primary method used by many African governments despite its limitations.

To improve monitoring, researchers at the University of Florida have developed a satellite tracking system specifically designed for the Equatorial region, including the Somali Basin between Somalia and Kenya, one of the world’s richest tuna grounds and among the least patrolled areas.

This system leverages existing satellite technology to provide near-constant observation of vessels, enhancing detection capabilities beyond traditional methods. However, as the researchers note, satellites can identify vessels but cannot enforce regulations or conduct boardings.

Effective enforcement requires political will, cooperation among neighboring African states to share costs and patrol responsibilities, and the ability to act on satellite data. At the Our Ocean Conference in Mombasa in June 2026, 15 governments, including seven African nations such as Somalia, committed to greater transparency regarding fishing vessel ownership and operations.

The satellite system represents a promising tool in the fight against illegal fishing in African waters, but its success ultimately depends on coordinated regional enforcement efforts.