NZ Assistance Boost Solomon Islands Fisheries

NZ Assistance Boost Solomon Islands Fisheries Division

A fisheries support package by the Government of New Zealand has enhanced the functions of the Solomon Islands Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR).

Fisheries Minister, Hon. Nollen Leni on Friday highlighted the latest improvements when he took delivery of his Ministry’s new office building along the Kukum Highway from the visiting New Zealand Foreign Affairs Minister Honourable Murray McCully.

Mr Leni said the building symbolizes the strength of Solomon Islands relationship with New Zealand and is part of the revised New Zealand Government fisheries support package called – “Mekem Strong Solomon Islands Fisheries”.

“My Government is very grateful for this assistance and it pleases me that in the spirit of partnership we have jointly developed and will jointly implement this package. This is an exciting time for Solomon Islands fisheries,” Mr Leni said.

The country’s Fisheries and Marine resources are extremely important sources of government revenue in view of the declining ability of the forestry sector to generate revenue for Solomon Islands.

“The Government is actively looking for sustainable sources of economic growth. We believe that our fisheries and marine resources when sustainably managed will produce enduring economic benefits that will carry us forward,” Mr Leni said.

With assistance from New Zealand over the past three years, the Ministry of Fisheries has tackled some apparently insurmountable problems they have faced.

The improvements included the new office complex, proper systems and practices as well as staff capacity development. The Ministry also has a vision for the future and is well advanced on developing policies and strategies.

“I look forward to building a prosperous future for the Solomon Islands in partnership with Aotearoa – the land of the long white cloud”.

ENDS

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