President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has reaffirmed the commitment of the administration to resolve the challenges facing the fishermen of the Maldives at the earliest possible time. He made the remark while speaking at the official function held in Faresmaathodaa, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, to mark the 42nd Fishermen’s Day.
During the visit to the island, President Solih met with the fishing community on Faresmaathodaa and inquired about their needs. Reflecting on the discussions at the meeting, the president noted difficulties in selling catch, acquiring fuel, and costs associated with travelling to fish collection points as some of the main issues facing the fisherfolk of the south. He assured the administration is working towards addressing these issues as soon as possible.
Furthermore, President Solih outlined some of these measures undertaken by the administration. He revealed plans to dedicate 270 tonne storage capacity and 120-tonne brine freezing capacity to Huvadhu Atoll next year. To address the issues related to fuel, the president stated that arrangements are being made to supply fuel at low costs and on credit through Fuel Supplies Maldives Private Limited (FSM).
Moreover, President Solih spoke about the plans to expand storage and fish processing capacity across the country. He noted ongoing projects to increase the storage and processing capacity of Kooddoo Fisheries Complex and the Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company Limited (MIFCO), in addition to establishing cold storage and freezing facilities in Thinadhoo in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll and bringing into operation the facility in Funaddoo in Thaa Atoll.
At the function, President Solih presented awards and certificates to the recipients of the Youngest Fishermen Award, the three vessels that sold the highest capacity, and the three companies that bought the highest capacity. Additionally, he presented long-service awards and plaques to students who attained outstanding results in marine sciences in the Cambridge Ordinary Level Examinations. He also bestowed posthumously a special plaque of recognition on the late Dr. Fathin Hameed for her numerous contributions to the progress and advancement of the country’s fisheries sector.