Oil spill halts fishing for over 800 in Venezuela's Güiria for three weeks

Artisanal fishermen in Güiria, Venezuela, are facing severe economic hardship as an oil spill continues to disrupt their livelihoods. More than 800 fishermen have been unable to work for three consecutive weeks, with fishing activities prohibited in key areas like Playa Pescador and Playa Guayabita due to ongoing environmental assessments.

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We observe a national loss, on average, of 10,000 to 12,000 kilos of fish daily.

The crude oil spill, which originated from Trinidad and Tobago, has contaminated approximately 1,600 square kilometers of coastal ecosystems, including vital marine habitats and national parks. Fishermen report significant losses, with an estimated 10,000 to 12,000 kilograms of fish missing from the national market daily. Beyond lost income, the contamination is damaging their boats, engines, and fishing gear, incurring substantial repair costs.

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A spare part for an engine is quite expensive, the nets, the paint for the boat. Often the oil not only damages the nets but the entire boat from below when it navigates, and then all of that affects.

"If we don't fish, we can't support our families," stated John Martínez, highlighting the direct impact on household sustenance. The affected fishing community is appealing to the government for compensation mechanisms to support the families impacted by this environmental disaster. The spill's ecological damage extends to marine species like the Carey turtle, wetlands, and mangroves, affecting protected areas such as Turuépano National Park and the Delta Amacuro biosphere reserve.

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If we don't fish, we can't support our families.