Observations upon the Al-Batinah artisinal fishery, the Sultanate of Oman

Hamed Al-Oufi, Ewen McLean and Andrew Palfreman

Marine Policy, 2000, vol. 24, issue 5, 423-429

Abstract: The Al-Batinah coast is home to around 35% of the Sultanate of Oman's artisanal fisherfolk, who account for 28% of national landings by traditional means. Over the last 10 years, the region has experienced a general decline in its fishery with a consequence of socio-economic disturbance and increased fishing pressure. The present study was undertaken to gain base line socio-economic information upon the region and to examine the industry's structure and co-management strategies. Fisherfolk (mean age: 44.4±8.77 {SD}) were from large families (avg. 12.4), educationally challenged (1.10±2.58 yr formal education), and had limited opportunity for alternative employment. Mean crew size of fishing vessels was 1.86±0.63 (SD) and two different systems were employed for calculating crew earnings. Average income per person was approx. US$ 5000 per annum although there was significant disparity in income distribution between villages. Traditionally, fisherfolk have employed the Senat Al-Bahar ("code of the sea"), in efforts to distribute and manage coastal fisheries. However, change in fishery management, away from local, to a more centralised style, has undermined the effectiveness of this system. This has resulted in alterations in fisherfolk behaviour, with some employing illegal mesh sizes, poaching and fishing in prohibited areas.

Keywords: Socio-economics; Fisherfolk; Co-management; Senat; Al-Bahar (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2000
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