20th June 2024
The National Consultations on the draft Fisheries Management (Sea Cucumber) Regulation 2024 and CBFMP concluded successfully this week with sessions held on Tuesday, 18th June, and Wednesday, 19th June at the Elisa Hotel, Sogi. The consultations were attended by representatives from various Ministries on Tuesday and village representatives along with fishers yesterday.
The national consultation is instrumental in ensuring that the regulatory framework and the current CBFM Program is inclusive, effective and aligned with both fisheries management goals and the socio-economic realities of Samoa’s communities dependent on fisheries resources for food security and livelihoods.
The sea cucumber regulation aims to ensure sustainable management of sea cucumber populations, preventing overexploitation and protecting biodiversity in marine ecosystems. The regulation also helps support the long-term economic benefits derived from sea cucumber fisheries by promoting responsible harvesting practices that ensure continued availability for future generations.
Dr Seuseu Tauati, Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, delivered the keynote address for both sessions, emphasizing the importance of sustainable fisheries management practices in Samoa and acknowledged the continued support of the CBFM Program from our village communities through Village Representatives (Sui o Nuu). Dr Seuseu also extended word of thanks to the World Bank for funding support through the SAFPROM Project of this event.
The next session is scheduled for Thursday, 27 th June, targeting stakeholders from Savaii and it will be held at the Apita o Pisaga Hall, Salelologa. This session will provide an opportunity for Savaii’s community representatives and fishers to contribute their perspective and recommendations towards the regulatory framework and the CBFM Program.
For more information, please contact Roseti Imo, ACEO-Fisheries on telephone 20369 or email; roseti.imo@maf.gov.ws
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SOURCE – Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries – Samoa
Photos by Government of Samoa (Leaosa Faaifo Faaifo)
