Hilarian High Five: Yinka Jagbir

Yinka Jagbir is a postgraduate student pursuing a Master’s degree in Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Development at the University of Belize, in collaboration with the University of the West Indies. As a Hilarian, Yinka is no stranger to excellence. She has the distinction of being the first person from the Caribbean to obtain a horticultural internship at the Smithsonian Institution, back in 2012. Not only does she hold a BSc. in Tropical Landscaping and Agribusiness, but she also earned an A.A.S in Ornamental Horticulture.

Yinka collaborates with Belizean local fisherfolk

Her Master's thesis focused on “Mapping the fishing activities in the multiple-use Turneffe Atoll MPA in Belize”. Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are clearly defined marine ecosystems designated for greater protection, through legislation for the conservation and management of a marine resource or species. An MPA is an important fisheries management tool.

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)

In 2012, in order to address the rapid decline in the three target species of conch, lobster and finfish, 1,317 square kilometers of the Turneffe Atoll and surrounding waters was mandated a marine reserve. To better understand the illegal fishing activities occurring in the prohibited zones, hotspots were identified using a participatory mapping process known as Participatory GIS.

Hotspots of fishing activities in Belize

Results indicated that although majority of fishing activities occur within the general use zone the management at the Turneffe Atoll need to focus on where the illegal fishing activities are taking place and come up with relevant strategies to overcome resource-user conflict. MPAs can serve as important conservation tools for fisheries management and reduce yield losses to fisheries if
(i) clear, concise fisheries objectives fulfilling biodiversity goals
(ii) adequate enforcement and monitoring of restricted areas for fishing
(iii) regular consultations and research with management of other successful MPAs, and
(iv) attainable and quantitative parameters to measure success.

Yinka regularly meets with local fisherfolk to advance marine conservation in Belize

Yinka muses, "(...) the last 18 months in Belize has definitely been one of the most rewarding experiences allowing growth academically, personally and spiritually."

In true Hilarian spirit, congratulate Yinka in advance of her 2015 graduation!