News

News updates from the Kiribati Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources Development.

Minister Ribanataake Tiwau Marks New Beginnings with Launch of Innovative MFMRD Products

The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources Development (MFMRD) witnessed a transformative moment as Minister Ribanataake Tiwau began his tenure with the unveiling of several groundbreaking initiatives. The launch event, held to mark this milestone, introduced a suite of tools and resources aimed at enhancing the Ministry’s efficiency and service delivery.

New Products and Tools for the Future

Minister Ribanataake inaugurated six key innovations during the event:

  1. Refurbished Ministry Website: A modernized platform designed to improve accessibility and communication with stakeholders.
  2. Project Dashboard: A centralized tool to monitor and manage all MFMRD projects efficiently.
  3. Te Baiku Ocean Database: A comprehensive digital resource for oceanographic and fisheries data.
  4. MFMRD ID Cards: These dual-purpose cards serve as digital business cards and attendance trackers.
  5. Customer Service Guide: A user-friendly manual to streamline interactions with the Ministry’s services.
  6. New Fleet: The addition of buses and double-cab vehicles to support operational logistics.

Highlighting the significance of these developments, Minister Ribanataake stated, “Actions speak louder than words.” He emphasized that these tools demonstrate tangible progress and are essential for serving the people of Kiribati and supporting the country’s future growth.

Celebrating Leadership and Vision

The launch event was also a moment of celebration for Minister Ribanataake and his wife, recognizing their victory as Member of Parliament for Nikunau Is constituency and his reappointment as Minister for Fisheries and Marine Resources Development.

The reception was a collaborative effort hosted by Ministry staff and affiliated companies. It brought together an esteemed gathering, including the Chairpersons and Board Directors of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) and Joint Venture Companies, as well as CEOs, Directors, and MFMRD staff.

Acknowledgment of Key Partnerships

The Ministry expressed gratitude to its valued partners—the European Union, the World Bank, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), and the Government of Kiribati—for their financial support in making these innovations possible.

A Step Toward Progress

This remarkable launch underscores the Ministry's commitment to innovation and progress, paving the way for more efficient services and a brighter future for Kiribati.

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Kiribati Ministry Staff Participate in International Mariculture Training Workshop in China

Two staff members from the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources Development (MFMRD) in Kiribati recently had the valuable opportunity to participate in the 2024 "Belt and Road" International Training Workshop on Mariculture Technologies. The workshop, held in Qingdao, China, from October 22 to November 5, was an intensive training program aimed at enhancing participants’ knowledge and skills in mariculture, one of the most vital sectors for sustainable fisheries and marine resource development.

The event was organized by the prestigious Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute in collaboration with key partners from the Chinese aquaculture sector. The workshop brought together experts and participants from around the world, offering a unique platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and collaboration on the latest advancements in mariculture technologies.

Over the two-week program, the Kiribati representatives, along with other international attendees, participated in a comprehensive curriculum that included a blend of lectures, hands-on training, and field visits to leading mariculture facilities. These sessions covered a wide range of aquaculture topics, including seaweed farming, fish breeding, sustainable aquaculture practices, and marine biodiversity conservation. The field visits allowed participants to see firsthand how these technologies and practices are implemented in real-world settings, providing valuable insights that they can apply back in their home countries.

The training workshop provided the Kiribati staff with cutting-edge knowledge in mariculture, which will be instrumental in enhancing the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainable fisheries and aquaculture development. Mariculture, or marine aquaculture, has become increasingly important for Kiribati, as it offers significant opportunities to diversify the country’s economy, enhance food security, and provide sustainable livelihoods for coastal communities.

The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources Development expressed its gratitude for the generous funding and organizational support provided by the Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute and its partners, including ZHEJIANG OCEAN FAMILY CO., LTD. Their sponsorship made it possible for the Ministry’s staff to benefit from this high-level international training. This opportunity not only allowed the Kiribati representatives to enhance their technical expertise but also to establish valuable connections with international experts and institutions in the field of mariculture.

The Ministry looks forward to leveraging the knowledge and skills gained from the workshop to further develop the aquaculture sector in Kiribati. The expertise acquired will help the Ministry implement more effective and sustainable mariculture practices, contributing to the long-term conservation of marine resources and the development of resilient coastal communities in Kiribati.

As Kiribati continues to face environmental challenges, particularly those posed by climate change and ocean degradation, the adoption of advanced mariculture technologies represents a critical step towards achieving sustainable development. This workshop exemplifies the kind of international cooperation that can drive positive change in the fisheries sector, ensuring that marine resources are managed and utilized in ways that benefit both the environment and the people who depend on them.

In conclusion, the participation of the Ministry’s staff in the 2024 "Belt and Road" International Training Workshop on Mariculture Technologies highlights Kiribati’s ongoing commitment to improving its fisheries and aquaculture practices. Through international collaboration and the support of key partners like the Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute and ZHEJIANG OCEAN FAMILY CO., LTD., Kiribati is making strides toward a more sustainable and prosperous future for its marine resources and coastal communities.

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Kiribati Celebrates UN Day with Focus on Development and Sustainability

Today, Kiribati commemorated United Nations (UN) Day with a vibrant event at Te Kainga Mweneaba in Ambo, bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders to strengthen partnerships aimed at advancing the nation's development goals. The celebration marked a significant occasion where representatives from UN bodies, donor partners, government officials, and local communities gathered to reflect on the progress made, explore new avenues of cooperation, and showcase ongoing projects that promote sustainability and resilience in Kiribati.

UN Day, observed annually on October 24th, celebrates the anniversary of the UN Charter's coming into effect in 1945, symbolizing the power of international cooperation and multilateralism. In Kiribati, the day serves as an important reminder of the ongoing collaboration between the UN and the government in addressing critical challenges, particularly those related to climate change, sustainable development, and marine resource management.

At this year’s event, the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources Development (MFMRD) played a pivotal role by highlighting several key projects that are currently underway, thanks to the support of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). These initiatives reflect the shared commitment between Kiribati and its international partners to promote sustainable development while addressing the unique challenges faced by the island nation, especially in the context of climate change and ocean conservation.

One of the main projects showcased was the Mariculture Project, which focuses on promoting seaweed farming as a sustainable source of income for local communities. Seaweed farming has emerged as a highly viable option for many I-Kiribati, offering both economic benefits and environmental advantages. As a climate-friendly crop, seaweed requires no freshwater or fertilizer to grow, and it helps absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, contributing to climate change mitigation. The project not only boosts the livelihoods of local farmers but also aligns with Kiribati's broader goal of enhancing food security and reducing dependence on imported goods.

Another notable initiative presented by MFMRD was the Resilience Islands Resilient Communities project, a program designed to help island communities adapt to the impacts of climate change and natural disasters. Given Kiribati’s geographical vulnerability to rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and changing oceanic conditions, building resilience at the community level is critical. The project focuses on empowering communities with the tools, knowledge, and resources needed to respond effectively to environmental challenges. This includes capacity-building activities, strengthening infrastructure, and enhancing disaster preparedness, ensuring that communities can continue to thrive even in the face of adversity.

Additionally, the Small-Scale Coastal Vessel for Small Island Developing States (SCV4SIDS) initiative was another highlight at the event. This program, also supported by FAO, aims to provide small island nations like Kiribati with efficient, sustainable, and environmentally friendly vessels for use in coastal and inter-island transportation. In a country where the ocean is central to both livelihoods and connectivity, the development of safe, cost-effective, and climate-resilient maritime transportation systems is essential. The SCV4SIDS project is an important step towards addressing this need, while also supporting the sustainable management of marine resources and enhancing the resilience of local communities that rely heavily on the sea for their daily lives.

The event underscored the importance of these ongoing projects in contributing to Kiribati’s development and sustainability efforts. It also highlighted the role of international cooperation, particularly with the UN and donor partners, in ensuring the successful implementation of such initiatives. Throughout the day, participants engaged in discussions aimed at identifying new opportunities for collaboration and addressing the challenges that lie ahead, particularly in the areas of climate resilience, food security, and sustainable resource management.

In his remarks, a representative of MFMRD emphasized the significance of these projects in supporting the government's vision for a more sustainable and resilient Kiribati. "These initiatives are more than just projects; they are building blocks for the future of our nation. They not only provide immediate benefits to our communities but also lay the foundation for long-term sustainability and self-reliance," he said. "With the continued support of our international partners, we can ensure that Kiribati remains resilient in the face of global challenges, particularly those posed by climate change."

The UN and its partner organizations reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Kiribati's development goals. They acknowledged the progress made so far and expressed their readiness to continue working with the government and local stakeholders to address key issues such as marine conservation, climate adaptation, and economic diversification. Donor partners, including the FAO, commended the Ministry's efforts to advance sustainable development through innovative projects that empower local communities while protecting the environment.

The event concluded with a celebratory gathering, honoring the collective efforts and achievements of all those involved in advancing Kiribati’s development and resilience. Traditional performances, cultural displays, and speeches from key stakeholders reinforced the sense of unity and shared purpose that underpinned the day's activities. The celebration not only recognized the successes achieved so far but also set the stage for continued collaboration and progress in the years to come.

In summary, Kiribati's UN Day celebration at Te Kainga Mweneaba was a powerful demonstration of the nation’s commitment to sustainable development, marine conservation, and community resilience. The event highlighted the critical role of international partnerships in supporting Kiribati’s journey toward a more sustainable and prosperous future. As the country continues to face the challenges posed by climate change and economic constraints, the projects spearheaded by MFMRD and supported by the FAO serve as beacons of hope, demonstrating that with the right support and collaboration, meaningful progress can be made for the benefit of all I-Kiribati.

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MFMRD Secures New Vehicles to Enhance Workplace Efficiency and Punctuality

Punctuality and efficiency are crucial in any workplace, especially in sectors where operations need to follow a well-structured plan. A key factor in ensuring both is reliable and comfortable transportation for staff. Recognizing this, the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources Development (MFMRD) has taken an important step toward improving its transport services.

As many of the Ministry's current vehicles are aging and several buses are out of service, the need for new and dependable transportation has become a priority. Today, MFMRD proudly announced the signing of a contract with King Holdings Limited. This agreement ensures the provision of four brand-new vehicles—two buses and two double-cab trucks—by late 2024 or early January 2025.

These new vehicles will not only support the Ministry's functions but also provide greater comfort and safety for staff members commuting to work and delivering essential services to the public. The acquisition aims to boost the overall efficiency and morale of the team, enabling them to perform at their best.

The contract was awarded to King Holdings Limited after a competitive and transparent bidding process. The MFMRD congratulates King Holdings Limited for successfully securing the contract. The Ministry also extends its gratitude to the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development (MFED) for their continued support and acknowledges the other bidders for their interest in the project.

With these new vehicles on the way, the MFMRD looks forward to enhanced service delivery and improved transportation for its dedicated workforce.

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