A standoff continues between the traditional fishermen of Ambalamanga and those who arrived from Ampasindava. Last week, the former denounced the use of unauthorized nets by the Ampasindava fishermen and demanded they cease their activities. In response, the latter gathered in large numbers on Monday in Aranta for a show of force, asserting that they will not leave and will continue their fishing operations in the area.
The house of the migrant leader using ‘kôky be’ nets was nearly set on fire by unknown individuals. A confrontation is feared if authorities do not take swift action. ‘The sea belongs to no one. Everyone can fish there. Our nets can be checked for compliance with standards. We call on fisheries officials to come and inspect them. We use 15-mesh nets,’ explained the fishermen’s spokesperson.
Women from the ‘kôky be’ group also emphasized that the presence of these fishermen provides work for local merchants in Aranta. A merchant stated, ‘Their presence provides work for traders in Ambalamanga and Ambalahonko. We, the women of the be kapila and Aranta groups, are satisfied with the situation as it has allowed us to create small businesses. We share the fish collected by the kôky be, allowing everyone to work. Even our young children are introduced to this activity during the holidays. It is a trade passed down from generation to generation. Why do they want to drive us out of Mahajanga when fishermen from Mahajamba, Ambalamanga, Sotema, and Bonamaro come to us in Ampasindava? They use nets of 3,000 to 4,000 km, yet we have never stopped them from working. They don’t even sell us their fish, whereas here, we share our production.’
‘Tsy miala kôky be’ (We will not leave, kôky be) was written on banners displayed during the demonstration in Aranta.
Captured & Published at: 2026-08-05 05:39:06 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/08/mahajanga-nouvelles-tensions-entre-les.html