In 2015, the globe marine fisheries catch was 81,164,685 tons with a catch escalate of 1.7% from the previous year. The worth added by the sector in 2011 was estimated at greater than US $24 billion, tallying to 1.26% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of all African countries. The overall worth added from aquaculture and fishing solely in Africa is over US $17.4 billion. The Sub-region of West Africa has more than an Exclusive Economic Zone of 2,016,900 km and 6,069km of Coastal Zone that help fishing and other related economic activities. Though the main providers of fisheries resources in the region are; Nigeria, Senegal, Ghana and Mauritania. The Gambia is placed as the sixth major productive fishing nation in the universe. This boosts prospects for fishing in the estuary ranges and marine of the River Gambia [3].

In the Gambia, the fisheries sector is categorized into industrial and small-scale sub-sectors. Industrial fisheries refer to relatively huge investment and usually aim principally on demersal species that are manufactured in factories and merchandised. Artisanal or small-scale fisheries involve in comparatively low input, extensive practices that usually employ processing methods and simple fishing. The fisheries sector of The Gambia creates both indirect and direct employment opportunities to over a population of 36,000 people, the huge majority of whom are working in small-scale fisheries. Though men are involved in activities such as large-scale fish smoking for export marketing and domestic purposes, most drying, local marketing, smoking are done by women. Fisheries associated activities encompass petty trading, vegetable gardening, fuel wood sale, maintenance and repair of outboard engines and canoe construction [4].

In precedent global findings, West Africa was recognized as one of the most susceptible areas to the effects of climate change. Severe alterations in marine resources as a result of climate change have the potential to pose dangers to the lives and livelihoods of the coastal communities and nations that depend on fisheries for income generation and food. It has been forecasted that the decline in the productivity of marine resources as a result of climate change may have huge influences of the lives and livelihoods of West African Nations [5].

The impacts of climate change exert on fishes through broad range of systems, both directly via reproductive and metabolic processes and indirectly via competitors, predators, prey and phenology. The significance of climatic alterations as a driver of fish population, exploitation and dynamics has far too been acknowledged. In spite of the fact that little marked than the impacts narrated from terrestrial habitats, climate crisis has already influenced world crucial fisheries and the trend will continue to impact fisheries globally in different manners and intensities, replicating geographical position and the fierceness of several other stressors that are not climatic. Human activities are the drivers of these non-climate stressors and encompass over extraction of water, hydrological regulation, pollution, changes in land use, invasive species and over exploitation of resources encompassing overfishing as well [6]. Climatic variations impact the distribution and quantity of fish species via abiotic elements such as sea level, nutrients, salinity, water temperature, water acidification, current conditions and amount of sea ice. Temperature is undoubtedly the key broadly reported variable and the one that is normally viewed as an indicator of more complicated ocean processes. Variations in temperature can be linked to ocean currents and winds, location of frontal regions, enrichment etc. These processes influence the variety and abundance of plankton (food) and fishes that feed on them and coupled with the direct physiological influences of temperature, growth, early stages survival and fish spawning [7].

Fisheries and aquaculture in developing nations are viewed as a means to cater food, while fisheries and aquaculture in developed nations are predominantly centered on conservation and recreation, though non-recreational fisheries persist to operate in these areas. Across the globe, freshwater fisheries make pivotal social and economic contributions but they dominate less in terms of intensive commercial fisheries when compared to marine fisheries, with a huge benefaction of family or local level activities. Activities involving fishing play only a part in the lives and livelihoods strategies depending on fisheries as vast majority of them are engaged in other activities to make ends meet such as farming [8].

Fish biologists have discussed climate change and its effects on fisheries and freshwater fishes for almost three decades. Its significance is recognized officially: statutory agencies across the universe encompass climate change crisis as a core domain of concern, whilst national and international funding agencies progressively aid research pertaining to climate change. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of The United Nations has acknowledged the significance of climate change effects on fisheries whilst reference to freshwater fisheries and aquaculture were included by The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in their assessment report [9]. The global climate change findings are abundant with skepticism at every level of investigation: scenarios, responses, the emissions of the climate to this pressing, the relationship between regional models and global circulation and the resulting implications of these alterations. The indication that the climate is changing more speedily now than previously is becoming disturbing [10].

Statement of Research Problem

The fisheries sector involves limited research and awareness on the prospects of this crucial sector. Climate change has had a significant impact on fisheries, affecting the livelihoods and economic opportunities of those who rely on them. As ocean temperatures continue to rise, fish populations are shifting or declining, decreasing both the availability and diversity of fish caught. This has had negative consequences for communities that rely on fisheries as a primary source of food and income, leaving them vulnerable to poverty and food insecurity [11]. According to Kusumawati [12] Climate change has caused several environmental impacts on fisheries, such as ocean acidification and changes in currents and weather patterns.

Objectives of The Study

The objective of the study is to assess the knowledge and understanding and the socioeconomic impacts of climate change on fisheries in Sanyang and the research question to answer for this study is to assess the knowledge and understanding and the socioeconomic impacts of climate change on fisheries in Sanyang, a coastal community in Kombo South District, The Gambia.  The study covers the Gambia being a country that is located on the Atlantic Coast and surrounded by Senegal, fisheries and aquaculture are among the key activities of her people. As a result of the time and resources available, this study is limited to the community of Sanyang, Kombo South. However, the conclusions of the study should be generalized to most coastal communities as they share more or less the same implications of climate change on the sector.

Significance of The Study

The demand on fisheries resources in West Africa has led the decrease of fish stocks. As the pressure on fisheries resources keep escalating, fishers usually use progressively more complicated, sometimes illegal and destructive methods of fishing. High technology fishing methodologies with the ability of trailing the last prevailing fish are being used. Some of the gears used in fishing are very disastrous to the marine ecosystems, for instance bottom trawl which sweeps the floor of the ocean and wipe out everything on its route [13]. Every aspect of environmental, cultural, socioeconomic aspects needs adequate attention while understanding the effect of climate change on fisheries and aquaculture. Adaptation and mitigation efforts pertaining to fisheries and aquaculture to climate stressors are not unfamiliar but the scope is insufficient.

Therefore, de-escalating overexploitation of fishes through oil spills, pollution, overfishing etc. A holistic management strategy is the demand of the era as well as numerous related burning issues need urgent and consolidated efforts with national and international scientific evidences [14]. This study seeks to provide empirical evidence in order to raise awareness among the natives and other relevant stakeholders on the socioeconomic and environmental implications of climate change on fisheries resources in Sanyang.

CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

Climate change is globally regarded as one of the most pivotal environmental challenges the globe is experiencing today. Climate change has a broad range of influences on various human activities and ecosystems, encompassing the global fishing industry [15]. Fisheries and aquaculture are among the crucial contributors to global food security and the livelihoods of millions of people globally. Consequently, climate change is expected to have adverse effects on fisheries, including alterations in productivity and fish distribution, changed food webs, escalated ocean acidity, and alterations in fisheries policies and management [16]. However, the concepts as per this study are as follows:

1. Knowledge and understanding

Knowledge involves the information and skills gained through experience, education or research. Understanding, on the other hand, involves the capability to apprehend the meaning or importance of a matter at hand [17]. According to Pew Research Center [18] knowledge and understanding are the significant parts of learning. Pew Research Center [18] added that seeking knowledge and understanding are equally crucial but understanding is pivotal in the application of knowledge to new circumstances.

1. Climate Change

Climate change refers to the long-term changes in the climate of the earth, encompassing changes in weather patterns, precipitation and temperature, which are caused by natural and human activities but human activities have been the main driver of climate change [19]. These activities such as deforestation and the burning of fossil fuels, have escalated the levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, which trap heat and cause the surface of the earth temperature to rise [20].

1. Environment

Environment refers to the natural and physical surroundings that surround human beings, including air, water, land, and living organisms. Humans depend on the environment for survival, and thus, it is essential to protect and conserve the natural resources for sustainable development [21].

1. Fisheries

Fisheries involve human activities of marketing, catching and processing fish and other aquatic resources. It incorporates the preservation of aquatic ecosystems, management of fish stocks and the improvement of economic and social well-being of people who depend on these resources. Fisheries can be both commercial and subsistence, and they are significant sources of income, food and employment for millions of people globally [22].

KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING OF PEOPLE ON FISHERIES

Fisheries are a pivotal part of the economy of the universe, producing   protein and improving the lives and livelihoods for millions of people globally. According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, fisheries and aquaculture sustain the lives and livelihoods of approximately 60 million people, with an estimated 200 million people depending on fisheries for food. Fisheries also play an important role in sustaining ecosystem stability, cultural heritage and marine biodiversity [23].

The management of fisheries is crucial to make sure the sustainability of these resources for future generations. Fishing practices that are unsustainable such as overfishing, and illegal fishing can lead to the decline of fish populations, the destruction of marine habitats and eutrophication. Efficacious fisheries management incorporates the implementation of policies and regulations that enhance sustainable fishing practices, including gear restrictions, creation of marine protected areas and catch-quotas [24].

Fisheries play a crucial role in the nutrition and food security of numerous countries. Fish is generally a source of protein for over 3 billion people across the globe, especially in developing countries where people rely on fish as a major source of animal protein [25]. In developed countries, fish intake has escalated over the past few years as people become more cognizant of the health benefits of encompassing fish in their diets. Fish is a pivotal source of income for several nations who export fish products. For instance, fish is the second-highest exported agricultural commodity across the globe, accounting for US$164 billion in 2018.  Despite the massive benefits of fisheries, there are worries about overfishing, fish stocks decline, and environmental effects of fishing practices. Guidelines and frameworks pertaining to sustainable fisheries management have been set up by The United Nations and FAO. Sustainable fisheries must address the need to conserve fish stocks, habitat, and ecosystems while promoting economic and social benefits for communities that depend on fisheries. Fisheries are a crucial industry that supplies food and jobs to millions of people around the world. They contribute crucially to the economy and food security of several countries. Fisheries management must consider sustainable practices that promote conservation of fish stocks and habitat while ensuring economic and social benefits for communities that depend on this industry [26].

EMPIRICAL AND THEORETICAL REVIEW

Researches have indicated that climate change is presently having crucial effects on fish populations and fisheries across the globe. These effects encompass alterations in the location and timing of fish migrations, changes in the distribution and productivity of fish stocks, and shifts in the composition of fish communities [25,16]. Theoretical models hint that future climate change cases are likely to further complicate these effects, causing further depletion in fishery productivity and fish populations. Factors such as warming and ocean acidification, alterations in ocean currents and circulation patterns, and changes in marine ecosystems are anticipated to have crucial effects on fisheries and fish populations [27]. Basically, the theoretical and empirical evidence hints that climate change is one of the severe threats global fisheries are facing, and that immediate action is necessary to mitigate its effects and make sure the sustainability of these significant ocean resources. This will require a multi-faceted approach including measures to lessen greenhouse gas emissions, promote studies and monitoring efforts, and implement efficacious management approaches that consider the complicated and interlinked nature of marine ecosystems [27].

EXISTING GAP IN LITERATURE

In the Gambia, the existing literature on fisheries is minimal, and there is scanty of comprehensive studies on fisheries. Though there have been publications on certain aspects of fisheries, such as the effect of climate change on fish populations and the economic value of marine resources, there are still numerous significant domains that have not been sufficiently investigated. According to World Atlas [26] and World Wildlife Fund [27] in the Gambia, lack of data on the socioeconomic aspects on fisheries is one of the pivotal gaps in literature. Visit the Gambia [24] and Wang & Hannafin [25] added that there is a demand for investigation on the economic contribution of fisheries to the national economy, encompassing the role of women in the sector, income distribution patterns and cultural and social effect of fishing activities on coastal communities. The management of fisheries is another domain that demands more focus. There is a demand for investigation on governance and policy frameworks for fisheries resources, encompassing legislation and regulations that supervise the activities of fishermen and fishing communities.

METHODOLOGY

Research Design

This research is a case study that seeks to find the knowledge and understanding, challenges and management approaches of people toward climate change impacts on fisheries in Sanyang. Questionnaires were administered in this study among fishermen, fish processors, fish traders, boat owners, community leaders, among others. Descriptive statistics were utilized to provide a summary of the data collected using charts and graphs expressed in percentage.

Study Location

Sanyang is a coastal community located in the Kombo South District of the West Coast Region of The Gambia. It is situated on the south coast of The Gambia, approximately 35 kms west of the capital city of Banjul [26]. The community of Sanyang is located on the Atlantic Ocean and has a shoreline that stretches for over 7 kms [22]. The Sanyang Beach is a popular tourist destination, known for its sandy beaches, clear waters, and scenic views. The people of Sanyang rely on agriculture, fishing, and tourism for their livelihoods. Most of the people live in traditional thatched houses while modern concrete housing is becoming more popular. The main economic activities involve fishing and agriculture which includes cultivation of crops such as cassava, pearl millet, and maize. The tourism industry is emerging as a potential source of livelihood as there are many beach resorts in the area [23].

Population of The Study

The population of the coastal community of Sanyang, was approximately 8,500 people of the approximated 1,882,450 people [24]. The population was expected to increase in the subsequent years due to the growing economy of the coastal community and continued migration.  However, the record for the number of people directly or indirectly involved in fisheries is not available and as a result a total number of 50 people that are directly or indirectly involved in the sector were targeted for this study.

Target Population

This study included fishermen, fish farmers, fish processors, fish traders, boat owners, and fishery-related businesses such as restaurants and fish markets, community leaders and local government officials responsible for managing fishing activities, natural resources, and coastal infrastructure were included in the target population. Members of local environmental and conservation organizations in Sanyang were also key respondents for this study. The specific people were chosen because they were directly affected by the effects of climate change on fisheries in Sanyang. The fishing industry supports many people's livelihoods, as well as making up a significant portion of the country's GDP. Changes in the fishing industry will thus have a significant impact on the local economy and the livelihoods of local people who rely on these resources. Additionally, fishermen and fisherwomen have valuable knowledge of the marine environment and can provide insight into changes they have observed over time. By understanding the effects of climate change on fisheries in Sanyang, policy and management decisions can be made to support local economies, while preserving the health of the marine ecosystem.

Sampling Technique and Sample Size

A total number of 50 respondents were targeted for this study and involved people who are directly or indirectly dependent on fisheries in Sanyang. This study was based on convenient sampling as data was collected from people who were easily available and accessible without having to spend a significant amount of time and resources. As the goal was to gain an in-depth understanding of the study, convenient sampling was helpful in this regard because it allowed data to be quickly and easily gathered from relevant participants. Furthermore, convenient sampling was cost-effective method as limited resources were involved.

Data Collection Method

The data collection process for this study was typically done through various sources-primary sources such as one-on-one interviews, focus group discussions, key informant interviews, direct observations as well as secondary sources which include literature reviews, books and journals published related to the study, to compliment the primary data. The data that was collected from both primary and secondary sources was analyzed and interpreted to get the required outcomes.

Validity and Reliability of Research Instruments

The validity and reliability of the instrument that was used in this study was critical in ensuring accurate and trustworthy data was collected as the selection of the study instrument was appropriate for the study questions and objectives. The study ensured that the instrument was measuring what it was intended to measure and was consistent in its findings.

Data Analysis

Descriptive statistics was the tool that was used to analyze data in excel and helped better understanding of the data to make informed decisions based on the findings of the study. The variables of the study were presented in charts and figures.

Problems Encountered in the Field

Amid the study, there was a lack of comprehensive and reliable data on the fishing industry making it difficult to accurately quantify the impacts of climate change on the sector. There was poor infrastructure and limited access to basic amenities in fishing communities. There were issues with language barriers, as many people directly or indirectly involved in the sector spoke only the local language and had limited or no knowledge of English.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Socio-Demographics Characteristics of Respondents

In this section of the study, socio- demographic characteristics of individuals directly or indirectly involved in the fishing industry were examined. From the study, 66% of the respondents were male while 24% of the respondents were female (Figure 1). This was as a result of the availability and accessibility of men to participate in the study without having to spend a significant amount of time and resources.

From the study, 16% and 12% of respondents were between the age of 10-20 and 21-30 respectively (Figure 2). These results indicated that the involvement of young people in the fisheries sector as this is in line with the findings of Pollnac [20] that highlighted that young people are actively involved in commercial fisheries, the majority are involved in subsistence or small-scale fishing. From the study, 38%, 32% and 2% of the respondents were between the age range of 31-40, 41-50 and above 50 respectively (Figure 2).

From the study, 32% of respondents were single, 54% were married, 4% were divorced or separated and 10% were widowed (Figure 3). From the study, 46% of respondents had no formal education while none of respondents had no post-secondary education (Figure 4). These results were in line with the findings of Wang & Hannafin [25] that highlighted that the majority of people involved in the fishing industry had no formal education and the researchers attributed this to the fact that fishing is often passed down through generations and is perceived as a traditional occupation.

From the study, it was found that 42% of the respondents were fishermen, 28% were fishmongers, 14% were fish processor, 8% were boat builders, 2% were fisheries manager and 6% of respondents indicated other occupations (Figure 5). These results were in line with the study conducted by World Atlas [26] that stated the majority of respondents (58%) were fishermen, showing the high participation of fishermen in the fisheries sector in Indonesia. From the study, it was discovered that 70% of respondents were Gambians while 30% of respondents were Non-Gambians (Figure 6).

Knowledge and understanding of respondents on climate change impacts on fisheries

From the study, 48% of respondents strongly agreed with the opinion that climate change has caused to a decline in fish populations while none of respondents strongly disagreed with the opinion (Figure 7). From the study, 58% of respondents strongly agreed with the perception that overfishing and climate change are the two most crucial drivers of the decline of fish populations while none of respondents disagreed and strongly disagreed with the perception respectively (Figure 7). These results were in accordance with a global survey conducted by the World Atlas [26] that found that 54% of respondents believed that climate change is a very serious problem, with 36% considering it somewhat serious. Moreover, 77% of those surveyed from countries with major fishing industry believed that overfishing is a severe problem and 75% believed that climate has led to a decline in fish populations [27].

The fisheries sector in Sanyang is heavily affected by climate change, contributing to loss of livelihoods, economic instability and food security issues for the local population (Focus Group Discusions).

Declining fish populations, ocean acidification and habitat loss have led to decreased fishery yields and reduced income for fishers (KII). From the study, 36% of respondents strongly agreed with the opinion that climate change can lead to changes in distribution and migration patterns of fish species while 6% of respondents disagreed with the opinion (Figure 7).

Changes in water temperature and circulation patterns have caused shifts in fish distribution, making it harder for fishers to catch their target species. This has increased the operating costs for fishers as they have to travel further to find fish (Key Informant Interviews).

From the study, 47% of respondents strongly agreed with the view that the loss of coral reefs due to climate change has a significant impact on the abundance and diversity of fish while 3% of respondents disagreed with the view (Figure 7). These results were in line with the survey conducted by the Visit the Gambia [24] where 62% of respondents strongly agreed that climate change is a major threat to coral reefs and fish populations that depend on them. From the study, 46% of respondents strongly agreed with the perception that climate change can lead to the presence of harmful algal blooms which can affect the health of fish populations while none of respondents were against the perception (Figure 7). These results were in line with the findings of National Oceanic and Wang & Hannafin [25] that stated 88% of respondents in the coastal communities of Alaska, Washington and Oregon believed that climate change can contribute to the occurrence of harmful algal blooms. Additionally, 79% of respondents believed that harmful algal blooms can negatively impact the health of fish populations [26]. From the study, 58% of respondents strongly agreed with the view that climate change has a greater impact on small fishing communities and subsistence fishers, 30% were not sure while none of respondents disagreed and strongly disagreed respectively with the view (Figure 7). These results were in accordance with the findings of World Wildlife Fund [27] that stated 75% of small-scale fishers and fishing communities around the globe believed that climate change has significantly affected their livelihoods. Small-scale fishers operate in a more localized and subsistence-based setting, meaning they rely heavily on the natural resources within their proximity.

Their limited access to technology and resources makes them more vulnerable to the negative impacts of climate change. Additionally, small-scale fishers often lack the financial support needed to adapt to these changes, making it harder for them to sustain a livelihood (KII).

From the study, 66% of respondents strongly agreed with the view that the effects of climate change on fish populations can have ripple effects on local economies and food security while none of respondents disagreed, strongly disagreed and not sure respectively with the view (Figure 7). These results were in accordance with the study conducted by World Wildlife Fund [27] that found that 85% of respondents in nine countries (including the USA, UK and China) believed that the impact of climate change on fish populations could have ripple effects on local economies and food security.

The challenges of climate change impacts on fisheries have significant effect on daily income, food security and overall, economic stability as well as affect the health of the fishermen and the general public, leading to increased public healthcare costs among other things (KII).

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Conclusion

The research study found that the local community in Sanyang had some knowledge and understanding of the socioeconomic impacts of climate change on fisheries. However, there were still gaps in their awareness of the extent of the problem and how it affects their livelihoods. The challenges faced by the community included declining fish stocks, changes in the fishing season and patterns, increased fishing costs, and reduced income. In response, the community had developed various management approaches such as diversification of livelihoods, adoption of sustainable fishing practices, and participation in climate change adaptation programs. However, limited resources and lack of government support hindered their efforts. The study recommends that interventions aimed at promoting sustainable fishing practices, enhancing income diversification, increasing access to credit, and creating awareness on the socioeconomic impacts of climate change on fisheries should be developed and implemented. Additionally, government policies that promote the adoption of sustainable fishing practices, provide financial support, and enhance the resilience of coastal communities to climate change should be developed and enforced.

Recommendations

The study recommends several key approaches to address the socioeconomic impacts of climate change on fisheries in Sanyang.

First, improving knowledge and understanding of climate change impacts on fisheries through targeted education and outreach programs is crucial.

Secondly, strengthening research efforts to better understand the specific ways in which fisheries are being impacted and developing more effective monitoring systems to track these impacts is necessary.

Measures to adapt to these impacts should be promoted, including diversification of livelihoods and income generating activities to reduce reliance on fishing, as well as programs to promote sustainable fishing practices and community-based conservation efforts.

Finally, collaboration between local stakeholders, including government, NGOs, and local communities, is key to successfully implementing these approaches and addressing the various challenges posed by climate change on fisheries in Sanyang.

Overall, a comprehensive approach will be necessary to address the complex and multifaceted impacts of climate change on fisheries in Sanyang and promote the long-term resilience of local communities.