Fish consumption in The Gambia

The post-harvest fisheries division of the Gambia plays a significant role in the provision of both domestic and international consumers with wide range of fish and fisheries products.

Fish is put on the market while freshly wedged from the river. It can also be sold or consumed in its smoked form, salted and dried, sun dried or even when fermented, as well as fried. The sector also plays a fundamental role in the supply of products for the animal feed sector.

The majority of the Gambian population are generally fish consumers. It is the basic foodstuff for most of the Gambian family unit, both for the rural and urban rich. In The Gambia, fish consumption per capita is known to be at 25kg and the world average at 13kg, according to information collected by Observer Fisheries. Additionally, more than 70% of animal protein in the country is said to be from fish.  

It is also said to be the cheapest form of animal protein that is easily obtained by the majority of consumers. These are means that are available all year around. Due to the mass sensitisation on the media, there is now a high level of awareness of the importance of fish consumption, principally because of its rich nutritional values and the link with health benefits.

Fish is known for its excellent diet enhancement for children and adults suffering from Kwashiorkor and malnutrition. Consuming fish has been part of the life of Gambians, thus there is naturally a high level of perception on the subject matter.