Ministry of Fisheries voices concern over reports of vandalism of FADs in Isabel province
BY CHARLES STENNETT
A number of Fish Aggregating Devices (FAD), installed by the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR) in Isabel Province have been intentionally vandalised raising concerns from the Ministry and communities benefiting from them.
This was revealed by a FAD team currently in Isabel Province monitoring the performance and impact of the FAD programme in the communities of Kolomosu, Kmaga and Sepi.
A statement from MFMR said the Ministry is concerned that some FADs have been deliberately vandalised, undermining the benefits of the program for entire communities.
“The Ministry is appealing to community members to take ownership of these valuable fisheries assets and work together to protect them.
“FADs are installed to improve livelihoods and strengthen food security, and their success depends on the collective support and stewardship of the communities they serve” the statement said.
The monitoring exercise carried out by the team aims to assess how the deployed FADs are supporting coastal communities by providing easier access to pelagic fish species, particularly during periods of rough seas and unfavourable weather conditions when fishing on reefs becomes difficult.
The FAD programme has proven to be an important alternative fishing option, helping families improve food security and generate income from the sale of fish.
Many communities have benefited from the initiative, with fishers able to catch tuna, mackerel and other pelagic species closer to their villages.
Photo credit: MFMR
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