First device on guinean vessel
2026-05-25 (IPMA)
Following the training initiative led by Rita Esteves, oceanographer at IPMA, in collaboration with the Lusófona University of Guinea-Bissau (ULGB), Guinea-Bissau has taken a historic step in collaborative ocean observation. The first ocean observing device of the FVON-Okinka (Guinea-Bissau) programme has been installed on board the fishing vessel Jory, flying the Guinean flag. This initiative is integrated into the international FVON – Fishing Vessel Ocean Observing Network and supported by the FVON.PT (Portugal) programme.
This is the first unit of its kind deployed along the West African coast, now transmitting near real-time data to the Fishing Ocean Data Portal of the Ocean Data Network. Through this platform, Guinea-Bissau becomes the first country on the West African coast to contribute ocean observation data collected by fishing vessels, strengthening data sharing with the international scientific community and positioning the country as a key actor in ocean monitoring.
This initiative is part of the international FVON network (https://www.fvon.org/), which promotes the collection of ocean data from fishing vessels. It contributes to advancing coastal observation, improving understanding of ocean changes, and enhancing short-term oceanographic and meteorological forecasts. By placing the Jory on the FVON map, Guinea-Bissau paves the way for future developments towards a deeper understanding of West African coastal seas, their protection, and the sustainable management of marine resources.
The installation on board the Jory was carried out by members of the local FVON-Okinka (Guinea-Bissau) team, established for this purpose. The team includes researcher Manuela de Oliveira (IPMA FVON.PT focal point), Eng. Luís Colaço and Huna Nambantche (Lusófona University of Guinea-Bissau), and Dr. Gualdino Té, Quefade Nunes and Aniceto Quadé (Maritime and Port Institute of Guinea-Bissau).
This initiative represents a milestone in local capacity building, international cooperation, and collaborative ocean monitoring—reinforcing the role of Portugal, and particularly IPMA, as a strategic partner in marine science in Africa.
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Copyright © Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere 2026
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