Vuna Road, Sopu
Tongatapu, Tonga

Tonga Ministry of Fisheries Empowers Vava'u SMA Communities with Pathways to sustainable oceans Project: 12 Boats with Yamaha 60hp Engines Handed Over

 

Vava'u, Tonga - April 20, 2024 - The Tonga Ministry of Fisheries proudly announces a significant milestone in its ongoing commitment to empower coastal communities and enhance sustainable marine resource management. Today marks the official handover of 12 boats equipped with Yamaha 60hp engines, and navigational and safety equipment to 12 Vava'u Special Management Area (SMA) communities, as part of the transformative Pathway to Sustainable Oceans Project (Tongafish Pathway) embedded in the Ministry of Fisheries.

The spirit of the Tongafish Pathway Project, is to support the vision of the Ministry of Fisheries and donating these boats will help motivate to ensure the success of the SMA program in the coastal communities. This initiative is an effort led by the Ministry of Fisheries, highlights the government's commitment to building economic strength, protecting the environment, and aiding local residents. By working with partners and involving the community, the project seeks to enhance the ability of coastal communities to sustainably utilize and profit from their oceanic resources.

The Ministry of Fisheries is delighted to extend its heartfelt gratitude to the World Bank for their invaluable support through the Tongafish Pathway Project. The generous funding provided by the World Bank has played a pivotal role in the successful implementation of the project. The Ministry of Fisheries recognizes and appreciates the World Bank’s partnership and support, which have been instrumental in realizing the goals and visions of the Ministry. We look forward to continuing this collaborative journey as we work together towards a brighter and more prosperous future for Tonga's fisheries communities.

The handover ceremony was officiated by the Acting Prime Minister of Tonga, Hon Samiu Kuita Vaipulu and attended by representatives from the Ministry of Fisheries, boat builders, District and Town officers, members of the Vava'u SMA communities. Together, they celebrated this significant milestone and reaffirmed their commitment to working collaboratively towards a more sustainable and prosperous future for Tonga's coastal regions.

For media inquiries and further information about the Tongafish Pathway Project, please contact:

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Ministry of Fisheries,

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Tonga Ministry of Fisheries Signs MOU for US Treaty

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Nuku’alofa, 16th April, 2024 – The Tonga Ministry of Fisheries is pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) under the United States Fisheries Treaty with the Pacific Islands Parties which is administered by the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA). The CEO represent Tonga as one of the seventeen members of the Pacific Island Parties (PIP) and this fisheries Treaty arrangement strengthening cooperation among FFA members and the United States in fisheries management, development and conservation among other activities. The MOU provides for the United States fleet operating under the Treaty to continue fishing in the EEZs of the Pacific Island Parties. Present at the ceremony was the CEO of the Ministry of Fisheries and Kaburoro Ruaia, the Multilateral Treaty Administrator Manager from FFA.

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The MOU, signed in Nuku'alofa, outlines joint efforts to combat illegal fishing and promote sustainable practices. It underscores both nations' commitment to marine conservation and supports Tonga's capacity-building initiatives.

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This agreement reflects Tonga's proactive approach to international fisheries management and reinforces diplomatic ties with the United States and the other Pacific Island Parties.

For more information, please contact:
 
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Ministry of Fisheries, Tonga
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