Result of a successful training in Japan
JICA Resident representative, Shumon Yoshiara (left) and Deputy Secretary Fisheries and Forest, Commander Sanaila Naqali. Photo: RAMA
LAMI
The Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has boosted the Ministry of Fisheries’ Makogai Mariculture Centre with $63,000 worth of much-needed research equipment.
The official handover was made at the Fisheries Lami Depot on Friday.
It was part of a follow up project JICA had with department staff who went to Japan in 2012 for fisheries training.
Following this, the participants were required to write a proposal for a project they felt needed immediate attention and was suitable to inject resources into.
When Cyclone Evan hit, some facilities on the marine species spawning island were damaged.
Fisheries Economic Planning officer, Pransihma Kumar, said the station was vital for research to ensure that marine species, whether edible or otherwise, are there for generations.
“The reason for the proposal was I wanted to preserve the station and create awareness so that people find out that Fisheries Department is doing a lot,” Ms Kumar said.
“In doing so, they realise that our marine resources are kept at a sustained level and that our future generations can continue to enjoy the same fisheries species we’re enjoying.”
Resident Representative, JICA Fiji Shumon Yoshiara said: “I hope this contribution from JICA will assist the Department of Fisheries in achieving its Project purposes and overall, place Makogai as a front-runner field research station.
“Especially since the Fisheries Department has gradually refined the culture technology of giant clams (and other species such as trochus, sea turtles, and coral species).”
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