Fishing techniques 1.1 HAITI
What is the name of the traditional Haitian boat carved directly from a single tree trunk?
80% of players answered correctly.
THE CORRECT ANSWER: The monoxyl canoe (Bwafouye)
The monoxyl canoe, locally called “Bwafouye” or excavated wood, constitutes the basic unit of artisanal fishing in Haiti. Carved directly from a single tree trunk, generally mango or mapou, it bears witness to ancestral know-how passed down from generation to generation.This type of boat is particularly appreciated for its robustness and its ability to navigate in shallow coastal areas. Although rudimentary, it allows Haitian fishermen to access coral reefs close to the coast to meet the food needs of their communities.The use of Bwafouye remains predominant despite the gradual introduction of modern materials such as fiberglass, because its manufacturing cost remains accessible to rural families. It represents not only an essential work tool for the local economy, but also a strong cultural symbol of Haitian maritime identity and the resilience of coastal communities.