By Dr. Nadine Panayot, associate professor of history and archaeology, curator of the Archaeological Museum, American University of Beirut (AUB); director of Hima Anfeh
In 2017, following the official establishment of the Hima in Anfeh—a collaborative effort between SPNL and the Municipal Council of Anfeh—I was honored to be appointed as its Director by the Municipal Council. Energized by the new role, I set my sights on a critical goal: to extend our conservation efforts to the waters surrounding Anfeh. Within a few months, our efforts bore fruit, and the waters of Anfeh were embraced as an integral part of the Hima’s conservation mission, marking a significant step forward in safeguarding our local environment. By 2018, Hima Anfeh had teamed up with the Institute of the Environment at the University of Balamand (IOE-UOB) to take a closer look at the state of the local fisheries.
Anfeh’s fishing industry, largely artisanal, relies on small, motorized boats that operate close to shore. These fishermen face numerous challenges, including low income, minimal safety gear, and outdated equipment. A study from 2013 highlighted the severity of their situation, showing that their earnings were far below the national average, placing them among the poorest in Lebanon.
The 2018 assessment aimed to tackle these issues head-on, identifying the needs of the community, providing essential fishing equipment, and offering training programs to improve their livelihoods. The initiative also sought to empower women, creating opportunities for them to contribute to household income and, ultimately, enhance the overall well-being of Anfeh’s fishing community.
Fishermen’s Profile
The fishing community reflects a deep emotional connection to the sea, shaped by years of tradition and hard work. Indeed, the fishermen of Anfeh are predominantly Lebanese, with nearly all living in Anfeh itself. On average, these fishermen are 58 years old, with many well into their 50s and 60s. This aging profile contrasts sharply with the younger national averages for skippers and fishers, signaling a pressing need to attract younger individuals to the trade.
Fleet & Fishing Gear
In the heart of Anfeh, the fishing fleet tells a story of tradition and struggle. Imagine a bustling harbor where 69% of the fishers are proud owners of their boats, a rare feat that sets them apart from the national average. These boats, ranging from 6 to 12 meters long with an average length of 8.5 meters, sway gently at their moorings in the Anfeh harbor. Some are docked at nearby ports or move with the seasons, reflecting the rhythm of the sea. But these vessels are more than just boats—they are lifelines, though they often bear the marks of their age. With older engines and scant safety gear, they face a challenging future, especially as their owners grow older and the pressures of the trade intensify.
When it comes to fishing gear, Anfeh’s fishermen employ a mix of trammel nets, gillnets, and trolling lines, each suited to different targets and seasons. Yet, despite their resourcefulness, they work with outdated tools. Modern gadgets like GPS and sonar are absent, leaving them to navigate the waters with more traditional means. Safety gear, too, is lacking—many boats are uninsured, highlighting the precariousness of their situation.
Day in and day out, these fishers labor tirelessly, often braving the elements seven days a week. Their catch is modest, with many bringing in less than five kilograms a day, a stark reminder of the hard-earned and often uncertain rewards of their craft.
Economic Struggles & Challenges
In Anfeh, life on the water isn’t just about casting nets; it’s about grappling with harsh economic realities. Returning from their daily toil, many of them earn less than 675,000 L.L. a month. Fishing is a labor of love for most, but only a few manage to rely solely on it for their livelihood. With families often stretching beyond four members and only a handful making more than 2,400,000 L.L. monthly, the financial strain is palpable. High operating costs and the absence of social security or health insurance add to their burdens. The challenges don’t stop at their paychecks. Ineffective law enforcement and outdated regulations have left the sector floundering. There’s a palpable lack of involvement from stakeholders in shaping management strategies. Ecological issues loom large as fish stocks dwindle and illegal practices creep into the waters.
Amid these struggles, the call for change is clear. Fishermen are urgently seeking updated laws, better safety gear, and more effective fishing equipment. Their requests range from nets and lines to advanced electronic devices. But above all, there’s a pressing need for improved safety measures to safeguard them as they navigate both the sea and the uncertain future that lies ahead.
Women in Fishing
In Anfeh, women are playing an increasingly vital role in this story. Wives, daughters, mothers, and sisters of fishermen—bring their strength and determination to the daily grind. Most of them are of working age, their experiences and education spanning from intermediate schooling to practical knowledge gained through life on the docks. Their involvement is more than a backdrop to the fishing narrative; it’s an integral part of the community’s fabric.
Yet, while the spirit of Anfeh’s fishing families remains unyielding, the sector faces formidable challenges. To ensure that this rich tradition continues to thrive, there’s an urgent need for support and innovation. Only then can Anfeh’s fishing community, with its enduring resilience and evolving roles, navigate the turbulent waters ahead and secure a sustainable future for generations to come.
We hope you enjoy reading the Magazine
Al-Hima-Magazine-Issue-No.-4
