The Caribbean Network of Fisherfolk Organisations (CNFO) is marking a significant milestone in 2026 — 10 years as a legally registered not-for-profit organisation dedicated to strengthening small-scale fisheries across the Caribbean.
The journey toward a unified regional voice for fisherfolk began much earlier. A 2003–2004 regional assessment by CTA, CARDI, and the CRFM highlighted the need for better coordination among fisherfolk organisations. This led to a series of foundational workshops and planning sessions in Belize, Guyana, and Grenada. The CNFO was officially launched in 2009, but its formal legal status was achieved in 2016 with registration in Belize, followed by registration in Antigua and Barbuda in 2017. These steps transformed CNFO into a recognised regional stakeholder with observer status in CRFM forums.
Over the past decade (2016–2026), CNFO has grown into a vital network that supports National Fisherfolk Organisations (NFOs), promotes sustainable fisheries, and amplifies the voices of small-scale fishers and fishing communities.
Key Achievements and Recent Impact
Emergency Response & Solidarity: Following Hurricane Melissa, CNFO channelled USD 60,000 in emergency funding to support affected fisherfolk in Jamaica through the Jamaica Fishermen Cooperative Union (JFCU). The funds, including contributions from WhyHunger and Grassroots International, enabled rapid, community-led assistance.
Capacity Building & Knowledge Sharing: CNFO has actively promoted the “Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries (EAF)” through regional peer-learning exchanges, such as the four-day event held in St. Vincent and the Grenadines in March 2026, organised with CANARI and partners.
Value Chain Development: A new pilot project funded by the CSFUND Co-Govern to Co-Liberate Fund (USD 7,750) is underway in Antigua and Barbuda to promote market-driven value addition of underutilised species like Diamondback squid, Neon flying squid, and Triggerfish.
Climate Resilience: In February 2026, CNFO launched the “Fostering Climate-Resilient Fisheries in the Caribbean” project, funded by the Blue Convergence Fund (USD 148,560) in partnership with the Pan American Development Bank (PADF). The project focuses on national fisher surveys, hybrid workshops, country action plans, and micro-learning modules across Anguilla, Belize, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, and The Bahamas.
Policy Influence: CNFO continues to champion the “Voluntary Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries (SSF Guidelines)”, working on governance of tenure, gender equality, value chains, climate change adaptation, and capacity building for fisherfolk.
Leadership and Community
The current Executive Committee (2024–2027) is led by “Mr. Devon Stephen” of Saint Lucia (Chair), supported by representatives from Dominica, Anguilla, Belize, Barbados, Turks and Caicos, and Suriname. The network also recognises dedicated individuals like “Ms. Petronila Polius” of Saint Lucia, the first woman Fisheries Extension Officer and Head of the Fisheries Extension Unit in her country, whose long service exemplifies women’s critical contributions to the sector.
Looking Ahead
As CNFO celebrates its 10th anniversary with a special gathering in Belize from 3–7 July 2026, the organisation remains committed to reducing the Caribbean’s community food bill, enhancing livelihoods, and ensuring sustainable, climate-resilient fisheries for future generations.
The CNFO continues to serve as a strong, unified platform for Caribbean fisherfolk — turning challenges into opportunities through solidarity, knowledge exchange, and strategic partnership
Here’s the pdf file that describes CNFO’s 10 years of service