The Ministry of Fisheries, in partnership with JICA Fiji, the University of the South Pacific (USP), and the Moturiki community, has officially launched the Moturiki Fisheries Management Plan.

The initiative is designed to address critical issues such as overfishing and the erosion of traditional practices while ensuring the sustainable management of coastal fisheries in the Moturiki area.

At the launch held last Friday (March 7) in Niubasaga village, Acting Director of Fisheries, Nanise Kuridrani, emphasized the importance of the Moturiki Island Customary Fishing Right Areas (CFRA), which serve as a vital livelihood and food source for the local communities.

She highlighted that the Ministry of Fisheries conducted a Stock Assessment and Socio-Economic survey in February 2024, the results of which informed the development of the Fisheries Resource Management Plan.

“The plan outlines specific actions aimed at enhancing fisheries stocks and ensuring the long-term health and productivity of the coastal ecosystem, benefiting future generations,” Kuridrani explained.

“It will also foster community engagement, clear coordination in resource management, and help create a more resilient community.”

The Government of Japan, through JICA, is supporting the implementation of the project as part of the broader initiative for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG 14) in Fiji and other Pacific Island countries.

JICA Fiji’s Project Officer, Junko Nakamura, expressed hope that the Moturiki communities would cherish and protect their marine resources.

Drawing from Japan’s successful coastal management practices, Nakamura encouraged Moturiki’s adoption of the management plan to ensure the future sustainability of their fisheries.