Written by MFMRD Media on 02 September 2024.
The Ministry of Primary Industry (MPI) of New Zealand, represented by technical advisors from Te Pātuitanga Ahumoana a Kiwa, Paul Creswell and Dr. Agnes Yeeting, recently visited Kiribati to collaborate with the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources Development (MFMRD). This strategic visit, which took place from August 26 to 30, 2021, was aimed at drafting crucial species management plans to support sustainable marine resource management in Kiribati.
The MPI team worked closely with the Coastal Fisheries Division of MFMRD during their visit, focusing on developing sustainable management strategies for key marine species. This collaboration underscores the commitment of both parties to the sustainable use and conservation of Kiribati’s rich marine biodiversity.
The MFMRD has expressed its deep appreciation to MPI for this invaluable support, which is instrumental in safeguarding the long-term sustainability of Kiribati’s marine resources. The technical expertise provided by MPI through this partnership will help ensure that marine ecosystems in Kiribati are managed effectively, benefiting both the environment and local communities who rely on these resources for their livelihoods.
This collaboration marks a significant step forward in enhancing the capacity of Kiribati's fisheries management framework, fostering a stronger foundation for sustainable development in the marine sector. The MFMRD looks forward to continued cooperation with MPI and other partners in strengthening the stewardship of Kiribati’s marine resources.
Recently, nearly 10,000 milkfish fries were successfully released into the Tarawa lagoon as part of an effort to restock and enhance the lagoon’s milkfish population. This release was carried out by the Secretary, Directors, Senior Officials, and Mr. Henry, a representative of the Zhejiang Ocean Family. The milkfish fries were spawned at the Fisheries hatchery and had been carefully farmed in the open lagoon for several months prior to their release.
This initiative is a strategic measure to bolster the population of milkfish in the lagoon, thereby supporting the growth of domestic fisheries and improving the livelihoods of the people of Tarawa. By enhancing the availability of milkfish, a key resource for local communities, the Government of Kiribati is taking proactive steps toward sustainable fisheries management and food security.
The Government of Kiribati extends its sincere gratitude to Mr. Shen, President of Zhejiang Ocean Family, China, and his team for their significant investment in this fish farming project. This initiative has been made possible through the Joint Venture Kiritimati Island Fisheries Limited (KILF), highlighting a successful collaboration between Kiribati and its international partners. Such partnerships are essential in fostering sustainable development and ensuring the resilience of local fisheries for the future.
Written by MFMRD Media on 26 August 2024.
The mission brought together a team of five professionals from various government departments, including the Ministry of Environment, Lands and Agricultural Development (MELAD), the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources Development (MFMRD), and the KOIRAP Financial and Safeguard Unit (KFSU). Their collaborative efforts are crucial for the successful implementation of this KOIRAP subproject.
Sponsored and catered by KOIRAP, the mission's success in identifying suitable resource sites marks significant progress in the project. These findings will directly support the construction of infrastructure designed to boost the resilience and sustainability of North Tarawa's communities.
This initiative reflects the government's commitment to sustainable development and climate adaptation in Kiribati's outer islands. As the project advances, the GeoScience Division will continue to provide expertise and support to ensure the success of KOIRAP's goals.
Written by MFMRD Media on 07 August 2024.
The Community-Based Fisheries Management (CBFM) team recently completed a successful visit to Tabiteuea Meang from July 19th to 29th. The primary goal of the trip was to review and assess the fisheries management plans for the villages of Tekaman and Kabuna, initially established in late 2019. The team was inspired by the unwavering commitment of these communities to safeguarding their marine resources, with reports highlighting numerous positive changes that have motivated other villages in Tabiteuea Meang to join the CBFM program.
This visit also marked a significant milestone, as two additional communities, Tanaeang and Aiwa Islet, officially joined the CBFM program. In Tekaman, the team collaborated closely with the newly formed women's association, which aims to strengthen the role of women in fisheries management. The association is actively working to raise awareness among children, husbands, and household members, with discussions focused on developing new rules to support sustainable fishing practices and improve livelihoods.
The CBFM team extends its heartfelt gratitude to the communities of Tekaman, Tanaeang, Kabuna, and Aiwa for their warm hospitality during the visit. The opportunity to work together in reviewing and enhancing the fisheries management plans is deeply appreciated. The team looks forward to visiting other communities in Tabiteuea Meang that were not reached during this trip, with a commitment to reviewing and supporting the endorsement of their fisheries management plans under the Kiribati Fisheries Regulation 2019. This ensures that sustainable practices are formally recognized and supported.
The trip was made possible with the support of the Government of Australia through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), and the Pacific Regional Oceanscape Program (PROP) Kiribati Project.
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