WISE

The Wireless Solutions for Fisheries in Senegal (WISE) project, is designed to enhance the competitive advantage of artisanal fishermen and fish processors through:
Improving access to fish market prices
Promoting fishing and fish processing best practices
Providing access to mobile money and credit services
Educating end users about relevant health knowledge

The WISE project uses advanced wireless technologies to improve lives in several ways. An electronic fish market information system allows the collection of fresh and processed fish market prices and transmits the data through a 3G wireless network to fishermen and processors with mobile devices, making both groups more competitive. These groups, which often lack access to credit, can apply for loans through local microfinancial institutions. They can access these loans via mobile money accounts and use the proceeds to invest in their operations or to pay their expenses during the off-season. Additionally, they can access information on fishing and fish processing best practices through mobile videos to improve product quality and generate better prices.