Training for the Improvement of the Coral Reefs in Salē Saipipi and Asaga, Savaii
“A leai se amu i gataifale, ua leai foi se i’a ma se figota e tua iai o tatou tagata.”
“If there are no corals in the reefs, there are no fish or shellfish for our people to rely on.”
O le polokalame o le puipuia ma le vaaia lelei o tamaoaiga o le gataifale e taua tele. E le gata i le faateleina o i’a ma figota aua le fofoga taumafa, ae o tupe maua mo le tausiga o aiga, nu’u ma Ekalesia. Sa talosaga afioaga o Salē Saipipi ma Asaga ina ia toe totoina amu i gataifale, ona ua tele ina afaina i suiga maaleale o le tau, mala faalenatura, ma tagata soifua o loo faaaogaina nei tamaoaiga.
From July 22nd to 26th, 2024, the Fisheries Division Advisory Section conducted two training workshops on coral replanting in the villages of Salē Saipipi and Asaga. The workshops aimed to educate village communities on various techniques and methods of coral replanting, including the selection of healthy coral, preparing and setting up planting sites, and monitoring the growth and health of transplanted corals.
The training sessions featured PowerPoint presentations on coral restoration methodologies, monitoring techniques, and management.
Attendees also watched instructional videos, participated in demonstrations, and engaged in hands-on replanting activities to establish two potential coral sites. This practical approach fostered excitement and knowledge-sharing among the village participants.
To support the coral replanting efforts and the maintenance of coral gardening sites, the two villages received fishing gear. Additionally, the Asaga fish reserve was successfully relocated, a significant achievement recognized by the village matai. This initiative aims to enhance the protection and recovery of fish populations, contributing to the overall health of fisheries resources.
We also produced and distributed various awareness materials on coral replanting, including pull-up posters, signboards, and information sheets. These resources will serve as valuable tools for the communities in their ongoing conservation efforts.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the village chiefs, untitled men, and the enthusiastic youth of Salē Saipipi and Asaga. Your dedication and active participation have been invaluable to the success of our programs, ensuring the continued sustainability and prosperity of our fisheries resources.
Lastly, we would like to thank the World Bank MAF SAFPROM project for their generous financial support, which made these initiatives possible. Their contributions have enabled us
to support and strengthen the resilience of our local communities and marine resources.
ENDS.
SOURCE – Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries – Samoa
