During a bilateral meeting with Dr. Manuel Barange, Deputy Director-General of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (UN FAO), Fiji’s Minister for Fisheries and Forests, Alitia Bainivalu, expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the ongoing support from the UN FAO. The meeting occurred during the Honiara Summit 2025 and centered on collaborative efforts aimed at bolstering food security, enhancing livelihoods, and promoting sustainable fisheries management throughout Fiji.
Minister Bainivalu acknowledged the contributions of the UN FAO across several crucial areas, such as aquaculture development, marine conservation, and the refinement of national fisheries policies. A significant highlight of the discussions included the pivotal role played by the organization in shaping Fiji’s Aquaculture Development Plan for 2024-2028, which was launched in October 2024 and is currently being implemented.
“On behalf of the Fijian Government and the Ministry of Fisheries & Forestry, I extend my heartfelt thanks to the UN FAO for their invaluable support. Their efforts have significantly contributed to enhancing food security and livelihoods for our fishing communities,” remarked Bainivalu.
The Minister outlined several key areas for ongoing collaboration, which are crucial for advancing the objectives set forth in Fiji’s Aquaculture Development Plan. These include:
– The continued implementation of the Aquaculture Development Plan 2024 – 2028.
– Development of Bivalve Shellfish Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) and Food Safety Guidelines.
– Initiatives aimed at bolstering food security and enhancing livelihoods for coastal communities.
Reaffirming Fiji’s commitment to collaboration with the UN FAO, Minister Bainivalu emphasized the importance of these partnerships in achieving shared sustainable development goals.
This meeting and the initiatives discussed present an optimistic outlook for the future of Fiji’s fisheries sector. By effectively utilizing international support, Fiji aims to navigate the challenges posed by climate change and to promote sustainable practices that benefit both the economy and the environment. The commitment to strengthen local fisheries and enhance food security not only demonstrates the proactive approach of the Fijian government but also reflects a broader initiative towards sustainable resource management in the region, fostering resilience in local communities.
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