Africa West Coast Surf Trip: Halfway Update

An⁤ Australian couple is cycling from France to South Africa, a journey of over⁤ 18,000 kilometers, to document teh devastating impact​ of overfishing on West African communities. Ben Herrgott⁣ and Laura Wilson recently completed the first 8,000-kilometer leg, from france to senegal,‌ and will return to Africa in two weeks to‍ continue their odyssey.

The⁣ couple, who previously surfed and became engaged in Antarctica, ⁢initially set out simply to find waves and experience an epic road trip. But along​ the way, they encountered firsthand the struggles of local fishers ⁣whose livelihoods are being ⁣destroyed by‍ large-scale industrial ⁢trawlers. They heard accounts of ​”opaque ​deals⁢ and ⁣corrupt licensing systems” allowing European⁣ and‌ Asian​ fleets to ​deplete fish stocks.

in Senegal, Herrgott and Wilson met two men carrying all their possessions in a plastic bottle and shopping bag, attempting to reach⁢ Europe for work.This encounter underscored the⁢ broader‌ economic ⁢consequences of⁣ dwindling⁣ fish populations.

The couple is documenting ⁣their findings and sharing‌ stories from‌ the communities they encounter.They’ve consulted with sources including the Environmental Justice Foundation to understand ⁤the complexities of the issue. Their journey aims to raise awareness about the urgent need for sustainable fishing practices and fair access to resources for West African nations.

You can learn more about their‍ journey and see their film here and find information about the⁣ Environmental justice Foundation here.