Brazil launches real‑time monitoring centre for artisanal fishers

Brazil's Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture inaugurated the first National Week of Promotion of Artisanal Fishing. Ministers André de Paula and Edipo Araújo opened a new real‑time monitoring room in Brasília, named after researcher Fábio Hissa Vieira Hazin, as part of the National Vessel Tracking Programme (PREPS). The facility, equipped with satellite‑based tracking systems, is intended to safeguard the lives of around 25,000 registered artisanal vessels and support sustainable management of fishery resources.

The initiative was highlighted during the week’s opening ceremony, which also honoured several projects that promote the economic, social, cultural and environmental importance of artisanal fishing across Brazil. President Lula signed the law creating the annual celebration, aiming to raise the sector’s visibility at federal, state and municipal levels.