Safi, recognised for its central role in sardine fishing, possesses strong potential to transform this sector into an engine of industrial and economic development. Several strategic actions are necessary to achieve this objective, affirms Mr. Hassan Saadouni, member of the CGEM M.S Littoral Commission, manager of the company Safi Pélagique, and director of Safimer.
Among the priorities, Mr. Saadouni highlights the importance of modernising the fishing fleet. According to him, this implies the introduction of modern vessels, equipped with advanced technologies to detect schools of sardines, which would allow for increased catch volumes while preserving fish stocks.
Furthermore, he continues, improving the working conditions of fishermen is essential. The implementation of social and medical coverage would contribute to their well-being and safety. Mr. Saadouni also highlights investment in the processing and valorisation of the sardine as a crucial lever.
« It is essential to promote the creation of new industrial units to process the sardine into derivative products such as oils, canned goods, or even fishmeal, » he explains. « Furthermore, existing units must be modernised to improve the quality of their products and conquer new markets. » According to him, the organisation of fairs and meetings would allow for better positioning of Safi's sardine products in local and international markets.
The preservation of fish resources is also among the priorities. Mr. Saadouni insists on the importance of respecting biological rest periods to ensure the sustainability of stocks and to intensify the fight against illegal fishing through reinforced controls.
He also highlights the development of skills among actors in the sector. « The creation of training centres specialised in trades related to fishing, processing, and marketing is essential. Moreover, it is necessary to support scientific research to optimise the management of marine resources, » he adds.
Finally, Mr. Saadouni insists on the importance of marketing and valorising products derived from the Safi sardine. « The creation of a ‘Sardine d’Asfi’ label would strengthen the recognition and value of our products in national and international markets, » he specifies. The organisation of festivals or thematic weeks dedicated to the sardine could also boost local tourism while promoting this iconic product.
« These measures, concludes Mr. Hassan Saadouni, if implemented in a coherent and coordinated manner, will allow for the positioning of the sardine fishing sector as a central lever for the economic and social development of the region, while ensuring sustainable management of marine resources. »
