The Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) is preparing to break ground on a new building complex worth $7.1 million (approximately $F16 million) that will accommodate its Regional Fisheries Surveillance Centre (RFSC), with construction slated to begin next year. This modern facility aims to bolster maritime surveillance and foster cooperation among the FFA’s 17 member nations.
The RFSC will feature cutting-edge monitoring systems, enhancing real-time Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA). This advancement will enable prompt and well-informed reactions to maritime security threats and address issues related to illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing in the Pacific waters.
Dr. Manu Tupou-Roosen, the FFA’s director-general, emphasized that the establishment of this new center embodies unity among member countries. He expressed pride in the accomplishments of the members, particularly in their leadership role in tuna fisheries management and development. “We always remember that the essence of our work revolves around our people,” Dr. Tupou-Roosen stated, reflecting on the mission guiding their efforts: “Our People, Our Fisheries, Our Future.”
The RFSC will serve as the main coordination hub for all FFA surveillance operations, assisting member nations in monitoring the expansive Pacific Ocean, which covers an area of around 30 million square miles. The ground-breaking ceremony was conducted on October 25 in Honiara, Solomon Islands, with the project expected to be finalized within the next two years.
In supporting its members, the FFA plays a crucial role in ensuring the sustainable management of fishery resources within their exclusive economic zones (EEZs), which extend 200 miles from their coasts.
This new development marks a promising step forward in regional collaboration and highlights a commitment to protecting vital marine resources while promoting security and sustainability in Pacific fisheries.
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