Mr. Ashok Kumar, a fisherman from Korovou, has received a new boat and engine as part of the government’s Seafaring Entrepreneurial Assistance (SEA) Programme, which aims to support small-scale fishers. The initiative was launched by Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Sakiasi R. Ditoka, on March 1, 2025, in Nabilo, Korovou, Tailevu, with funding exceeding $22,000.
This program is expected to provide improved livelihood opportunities for Mr. Kumar and his family, aligning with the Ministry’s Strategic Priority Areas (SPAs) that focus on enhancing economic resilience and access to essential services for rural and maritime communities.
The SEA Programme is reminiscent of similar efforts in areas like Kadavu and Lau, where communities have received boats and fishing gear. These initiatives underscore the government’s dedication to uplifting marine-dependent rural livelihoods, where fishing is a primary income source. In the regions of Kadavu and Lau, the SEA Programme has played a crucial role in improving both transportation and fishing capabilities, facilitating better access to education and essential services.
Minister Ditoka emphasized the importance of these support initiatives in promoting self-sufficiency and economic sustainability in remote areas. He noted that beyond aiding individual livelihoods, these programs contribute to the resilience of local communities as a whole.
The introduction of these resources is expected to empower families and improve their economic futures significantly. Ongoing investment in fishing initiatives like the SEA Programme reflects a promising commitment to fostering greater economic independence and sustainability in Fiji’s rural areas. With such support for fishermen and their families growing, the outlook for these communities is increasingly optimistic.
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