Bahamas
With over 40 shark species residing in one marine area, the Bahamas is known as the shark diving capital of the world. The Bahamas even created the first Shark Sanctuary in the Atlantic Ocean and the 400,000 people who live there rely on shark tourism for their economy. Unfortunately, this thriving shark sanctuary is facing threats from illegal fishing.
WildAid began working in the Bahamas in 2019 and has partnered with many organizations to work broadly across the MPAs in that area. They are developing training for enforcement and surveillance, working to secure long-term funding, and developing strategies for improving public outreach efforts.
