Cairo's Fishermen Transition from Fishing to Plastic Collection

In Cairo, the fishing community on al-Qarsaya island has undergone a significant transformation due to declining fish populations caused by plastic pollution in the Nile River. Mohammed Ahmed Sayed Mohammed, a 60-year-old fisherman, now spends his days collecting plastic bottles instead of fishing. Once able to catch 25 kilograms of fish daily, Sayed now only manages 4-5 kilograms, prompting him and approximately 180 other fishers on the island to pivot to waste collection. This shift is largely facilitated by the VeryNile initiative, launched in 2018 by the Egyptian social enterprise Bassita, which aims to clean up the river by paying fishers above-market rates for collected plastic waste.

The Guardian

The VeryNile initiative has significantly altered the economic landscape for these fishermen. Plastic waste now sells for 33 Egyptian pounds (£0.52) per kilogram, a substantial increase from eight pounds (£0.13) in 2018. During peak seasons, Sayed can earn between 2,000 to 3,000 pounds (£31-£47) monthly from plastic collection alone. This income has allowed him to support his family, including marrying off his children and establishing a café for his eldest son. The initiative has also distributed 150 boats to fishers at no cost and has expanded its operations to three locations, including Sayed's birthplace in Assiut.

The Guardian

VeryNile not only focuses on waste collection but also engages the local community in various developmental activities. The initiative employs 25 women from al-Qarsaya in kitchen operations and product design, and it has established an emergency clinic on the island. Additionally, it trains farmers in vegetable cultivation, purchasing their produce for use in its kitchen. Amna Karamallah, who leads community responsibility for VeryNile, emphasizes the initiative's commitment to improving the lives of island residents.

The Guardian

Despite the positive changes brought by VeryNile, challenges remain. The island's healthcare services are inadequate, and many residents, including Sayed's children, have not completed their education. Hoda Gamal, a workshop employee, noted that many fishers initially viewed declining catches as divine punishment, unaware of the environmental issues at play. The community's isolation, despite its central location in Cairo, further complicates access to resources and opportunities.

The Guardian

While the VeryNile initiative has collected over 454 tonnes of plastic waste since its inception, the long-term impact of this transition on the local ecosystem and fish populations remains unclear. There is also a lack of comprehensive data on the overall health of the Nile River and its aquatic life.

The Guardian

“The fish fled from the plastic chokehold,” — Mohammed Ahmed Sayed Mohammed, Fisherman

The Guardian

“We work with fishermen daily and practically live a full life inside this island,” — Amna Karamallah, Community Leader

The Guardian

“They didn’t know what environmental pollution or plastic pollution meant,” — Hoda Gamal, Workshop Employee

The Guardian

The transition from fishing to plastic collection on al-Qarsaya island illustrates the broader environmental challenges facing communities dependent on natural resources, as well as the innovative responses emerging to address these issues.

The Guardian