Written by MFMRD Media on 23 September 2024.
Officials and observers from the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources Development, Kiribati, recently took part in a specialized training program aimed at enhancing the observer programs of Pacific Island nations. The "Capacity Building Project to Activate the Observer Program in Pacific Island Countries" was hosted by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries of the Republic of Korea and organized by the Korea Fisheries Resources Agency (FIRA). The program ran from August 25 to September 14, 2024, in the coastal city of Busan, South Korea.
The training program was conducted in two phases. The first phase, held from August 25 to August 31, 2024, was dedicated to policy-making lectures and designed exclusively for officials. This phase focused on providing in-depth insights into fisheries management policies and equipping officials with the knowledge to make informed decisions on strengthening their respective observer programs.
The second phase, from September 1 to September 14, 2024, included both officials and observers, focusing on practical applications and field training. Participants had the opportunity to engage in hands-on activities, learning best practices in fisheries management and sustainability, which are crucial for the effective monitoring of marine resources.
A total of six officials from the Oceanic Division and eight observers from Kiribati participated in the program. Their involvement underscores the country’s commitment to bolstering its capacity to manage its vast marine resources. Kiribati, along with other participating nations such as Tuvalu, Tonga, and Samoa, aims to improve its observer program, which plays a critical role in sustainable fisheries management across the region.
The observer program is vital for monitoring fishing activities, ensuring compliance with international fisheries regulations, and promoting sustainability in the Pacific Ocean. The training in Korea is part of ongoing regional efforts to empower Pacific Island nations with the knowledge and tools necessary to safeguard their marine ecosystems and ensure the long-term viability of their fisheries industries.
By participating in this project, Kiribati continues to strengthen its role in regional fisheries management, demonstrating its dedication to protecting the marine environment while promoting economic growth through sustainable fishing practices.