Dahomey, 1963 (Benin People's Republic from 1975-December). Most West african countries suffer from lack of protein foods, and their Governments are aware of the contribution that increased fish landings can make to solving the nutritional problem. The Government of Dahomey is attempting to set up its fisheries on a modern basis, and has requested assistance from FAO. In response FAO sent Mr. Alphonse Collart, a Belgian fisheries expert to advise on all phases of fisheries development. He is trying to introduce modern gear and equipment such as outboard motors and nylon nets and is also making suggestions for the improvement of the structure and management of fishermen's cooperative organizations. The lagoon fishermen's equipment is primitive. They dig out their canoes from tree trunks and make their nets at home from the fibre of wild grasses. The lagoon is shallow and they usually punt their canoes instead of paddling them. A fisherman casts his net.