ekaní

ekaní is a term that refers to a specific type of fishing net used primarily in parts of West Africa, particularly along the coast of Ghana. It is a seine net, characterized by its long length and the presence of floats along its top edge and weights along its bottom edge, designed to be drawn through the water to encircle fish. The name itself is derived from local languages in the region where this fishing method is prevalent. The construction of an ekaní typically involves fine mesh netting, allowing it to effectively capture smaller fish species as well as larger ones depending on the net's specific dimensions and mesh size. The deployment of an ekaní is a labor-intensive process, often requiring a coordinated effort from multiple fishermen. Boats are used to set the net, and then it is hauled ashore, either by hand or with the aid of winches, bringing the captured fish with it. This traditional fishing technique has been passed down through generations and remains an important method for subsistence and commercial fishing in the coastal communities that utilize it. The effectiveness and sustainability of ekaní fishing are influenced by factors such as fish stock management, weather conditions, and the scale of operations.