Solomon Islands : Strengthening Kiribati's Fisheries Control: A Collaborative Effort

We're proud to share the successful completion of the Kiribati Dockside Boarding Inspection Training on Christmas Island, a joint initiative by the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA), New Zealand's Ministry for Primary Industry (MPI), Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA), and Ministry of Fisheries Marine Resources Development (MFMRD). This intensive week-long program empowered 25 Kiribati Fisheries Officials and representatives from various ministries that work in the border, including Customs, Immigration, Police, Environment, and Health. They learned crucial vessel inspection procedures to combat Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, enhancing maritime security. The curriculum covered best practices for safe and effective inspections at sea and in port, employing intelligence and risk assessment for targeted inspections. Practical exercises provided hands-on experience. This training contributes to stronger national and regional fisheries management, better IUU detection, and enforcement actions.  Mr. Yohni Fepuleai, a FFA Surveillance Officer, emphasised the significance of enhancing Kiribati's MCS officials' capability and competency, which is a top priority for FFA. This initiative is a part of regional efforts to detect illegal and unreported risks in Pacific fisheries. We extend our thanks to the students, the Kiribati Government, and our partners for their collaborative efforts. The course was generously funded by the FFA PEUMP program.

#FisheriesManagement #MaritimeSecurity #Kiribati #IUUFishing

Source: Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA)