Aquaculture has been around since the 1940s, yet there has not been a legislative framework governing the work or scope of aquaculture. The recent launch of the Aquaculture Development Plan 2024-2028 and the Aquaculture Bill 2024 marksa milestone for the Ministry of Fisheries and Forestry, providing a legal framework specifically addressing aquaculture.
While work on developing regulations is ongoing, with hopes for completion next year, the Ministry remains confident that the final document will assist the Aquaculture Division in supporting existing farmers, potential farmers, and the aquaculture industry as a whole.
Dubbed a milestone achievement, the Development Plan and the subsequent Bill aim to address gaps in the Ministry's existing legislation, which is inadequate for handling aquaculture or emerging issues related to it. The Bill, in particular, establishes a legal framework specifically for aquaculture and its associated activities.
As one of two key legislative priorities on the Ministry's agenda, the Aquaculture Bill is as important as the Inshore Bill. The Inshore Bill is currently undergoing a thorough legislative review, anticipated to conclude early next year. Both Bills are deemed crucial for advancing the Ministry's objectives and addressing pressing issues in their respective areas.
The Ministry's commitment to advancing pearl farming in Cakaudrove took a significant step forward with the opening of the Savusavu Mabe Pearl and Handicraft Showroom.
This initiative results from a partnership between the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), the University of the Sunshine Coast, the Ministry of Fisheries, and community-based Mabe pearl farmers from the coastal communities of Honolulu. The showroom will serve as a hub for crafting, value-adding, designing, and marketing Mabe pearls from these communities in the Cakaudrove province.
During the showroom’s opening, Minister for Fisheries Hon. Alitia Bainivalu highlighted that the Ministry’s partnership with ACIAR dates back to the 1980s, starting with pioneering work on giant clams at Makogai Island.
“This initiative laid a strong foundation for sustainable aquaculture practices in Fiji, focusing on responsible management of aquatic resources. In 2009, building on the initial successes of this program, we expanded our collaboration to include additional projects aimed at enhancing local fisheries. One significant project involved cultivating freshwater prawns, which diversified local aquaculture and provided new economic opportunities for community members.”
“This expansion highlights our collective dedication to promoting fisheries development, fostering sustainable livelihoods, and ensuring active community engagement. Through these efforts, we are committed to creating resilient communities that thrive while maintaining the health of their natural ecosystems,” said Minister Bainivalu.
Over the years, the Ministry has continually worked on projects fostering sustainable practices and enhancing community resilience. One result is the establishment of the Savusavu Mabe Pearl and Handicraft Showroom in Vanua Levu, which supports and uplifts the livelihoods of coastal communities engaged in Mabe pearl farming in Cakaudrove.
Currently, five community-based Mabe pearl farm sites operate in Vanua Levu. These sites are set to benefit significantly from the initiative, which offers specialised training in shell-crafting, design techniques, and marketing.
“This project is more than a livelihood opportunity. This facility will host workshops that train fisheries officers and community members to transform raw shells into exquisite handicrafts,” said Minister Bainivalu.
“It is a platform for preserving traditional skills, empowering communities, and boosting economic activity. The unique handicrafts made from Mabe pearls will serve as a source of pride and a pathway to sustainable income for our communities.”
The Savusavu Mabe Pearl and Handicraft initiative represents a shared vision of community empowerment, environmental stewardship, and sustainable economic development. By fostering resilience and providing growth opportunities, the Ministry of Fisheries enables coastal communities to thrive while safeguarding their rich cultural and natural heritage.
“As we look to the future, let us continue to build on the foundation of collaboration and innovation. Together, we can ensure initiatives like this succeed and inspire similar efforts across our beloved Fiji and beyond,” concluded Hon. Bainivalu.
Mabe Pearls (also known as blister pearls) are half-pearls cultivated inside a mollusc's shell. A small nucleus, usually made of mother-of-pearl, is attached to the mollusc’s shell and left to accumulate nacre over two to three years.
Once ready for harvest, the pearls are cut from the shell, and the nucleus is removed, leaving a hollow pearl. The pearl is then filled with colourless resin to reinforce its structure and sealed with a mother-of-pearl backing.