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The Yaboi is a tiny silver fish from West Africa, rich in essential nutrients. It used to be known as ‘the people’s fish’, a staple for lunch for Senegal’s children and a vital fishery for the country’s thousands of women Transformatrices who dry, salt and smoke it to preserve it.

In this second programme we consider the work of Senegal’s Transformatrices. Activist Coumba Toure describes how their work is unseen and uncounted and yet they hold a critical position in a key food chain in West Africa. Tranformatrices describe how dwindling fish stocks and increasing prices are leading to a collapse in the artisanal fishing sector. We also follow the work of leader Djaba Diop who is fighting for recognised status and better working conditions for the women. We hear how this network of mobilised, energised women offer hope for the country’s food security.

Presenter: Hazel Healy
Producer: Sarah Cuddon

(Photo: A Transformatrice holds out a tray of Yaboi fish. Credit: Hazel Healy)