World Fisheries Day 2024 was celebrated at Vatulele Village in Wailevu, Cakaudrove, on Friday, 13th December.
Celebrated globally on 21st November each year, the local celebration was shifted to 13th December to coincide with the recent launch of the Aquaculture Development Plan (2024–2028), which took place on 31st October, and the passing of the Aquaculture Bill 2024 in Parliament on 5th December.
Minister for Fisheries and Forests, Hon. Alitia Bainivalu, delivered the official remarks, highlighting the significance of this year’s celebration. She noted its greater importance due to the launch of these two key documents, which carry initiatives aimed at enhancing the aquaculture sector and promoting sustainable fishing practices.
“We had shifted the date to 13th December, and it coincides well with the Ministry celebrating a few milestones—one being the launch of the Aquaculture Development Plan 2024–2028 and the passing of the Aquaculture Bill during the recent Parliamentary sitting,” said the Minister.
“Additionally, the Aquaculture Development Plan outlines nine potential commodities, one of which is the edible oyster currently being farmed at Vatulele. Therefore, we thought it ideal to hold the World Fisheries Day celebrations here.”
Speaking on the Aquaculture Bill 2024, Minister Bainivalu explained that the legislation is expected to create a robust framework for the development and regulation of aquaculture, ensuring the industry thrives while safeguarding environmental resources.
She emphasised that the Fisheries Ministry now has enhanced capabilities to promote the sustainable development of non-targeted commodities.
“This improvement aims to bolster the aquaculture development plan, which is vital for ensuring the long-term viability of local fishing communities.”
“By fostering collaboration with various development partners, the initiative aims to create better support systems that enhance the livelihoods of these communities. This collaborative approach will benefit local fishermen and contribute to the broader ecological sustainability of aquatic resources.”
Under the Aquaculture Development Plan, 20 villages have been identified for the cultivation of edible oysters. Of those, 10 villages, including Vatulele, are in the Province of Cakaudrove.
Hon. Bainivalu acknowledged the collaboration with various stakeholders supporting the Aquaculture Division. These partnerships have assisted farmers and facilitated the exploration of potential cultured species that could enhance food security.
World Fisheries Day is celebrated globally on 21st November each year. The theme for this year’s celebration is “Blue Transformation in Action.”
The primary goal of this day is to highlight the importance of sustainable fisheries, address the threats to marine and freshwater resources, and demonstrate solidarity with fisherfolk, fish farmers, and stakeholders worldwide.
Concluding the celebration program was the release of three turtles into the sea and a coral planting program.
