Inland fisheries are crucial for sustenance, livelihoods, and cultural identity across Africa, yet they face challenges from population growth, climate change, environmental degradation, and globalization. This study explores the implications of climate change on African inland aquatic ecosystems, analyzing shifts in fish stock distribution and ecological impacts. A notable case study, the Lake Victoria Small Fish Project (LVSFP), highlights effective strategies for these challenges. The LVSFP promotes sustainable harvesting technologies like solar light fishing instead of kerosene and aims to provide solar driers to reduce post-harvest losses and enhance nutrition security. These initiatives particularly benefit rural communities, with a focus on women and youth. Additionally, digital solutions for data collection and management are being developed within the project. We examine innovative technological solutions, such as digitalization and sustainable aquaculture practices, that can improve the resilience and productivity of inland fisheries. The LVSFP’s integration of digital tools serves as a model for similar initiatives across the continent. Our study delves into the complex interplay between ecological, socio-economic, and governance factors, evaluating the effectiveness of community-based management strategies and their contribution to sustainability, as demonstrated by the LVSFP. The necessity of integrated policies that balance conservation with socio-economic needs is emphasized. International collaboration, regional partnerships, and community engagement are identified as critical for shaping a sustainable future for African inland fisheries. The findings aim to inform evidence-based policies, guide further research, and facilitate pragmatic interventions, steering African inland fisheries towards resilience and sustainability.
Key words: Climate Change, Governance, Technological Innovations, Blue Economy