The Lautoka Fishers Cooperative Limited (LFCL) has received valuable support to enhance its operations, with fisheries equipment handed over by Minister for Fisheries and Forestry, Alitia Bainivalu, at Lautoka Fishing Port. This initiative included the donation of two seven-meter fiberglass fishing boats, each equipped with two 60-horsepower outboard engines and fuel drums, specifically aimed at ensuring a steady supply of fish for local markets.
Minister Bainivalu praised LFCL for its commitment to transparency and ethical business practices, which serve as a model for emerging fishers’ cooperatives in the region. She highlighted the collaboration with the Japanese government, which has played a pivotal role in helping register the Lautoka Fishers Association (LFA) as a formal cooperative.
This initiative aligns with the Ministry of Fisheries’ commitment to the Sustainable Development Goal 14, which focuses on the conservation of marine life. As part of a pilot project that includes further expansion plans throughout Fiji and the Pacific Islands, the objective is not only to bolster local fishers’ businesses but also to promote sustainable fishing practices.
The Minister emphasized the importance of maintaining a consistent fish supply to local markets and encouraged cooperative members to work together in fostering trust and collaboration within their teams. The ongoing support from government initiatives is seen as a critical factor in strengthening local economies and creating long-term prospects for fishing communities in the region.
The integration of these resources into LFCL reflects a hopeful outlook for the future of Fiji’s fishing industry, where sustainable practices and cooperative efforts may significantly contribute to economic resilience and community empowerment.
This development serves to inspire other aspiring cooperatives and highlights the potential for positive change within the fishing sector, paving the way for better livelihoods and sustainable business practices in the region.
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