The national fishermen's registry, which was established to promote financial inclusion and empowerment, has documented 95 percent of local fishing vessels thus far, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu said Thursday.
The compilation of a national register of local fishermen was a key electoral pledge of President Dr Muizzu.
The government aims to ensure social security for fishermen, crew members, and vessel owners through the register, and ensure that they are recognised by the state and financial institutions.
Speaking during the fourth episode of the ‘Rayyithunnaa Eku’ podcast, President Dr Muizzu said that this strategic initiative is designed to help financial institutions recognise fishing as a sustainable income source.
The President also discussed measures aimed at ensuring sustainable financial arrangements for fishermen.
A notable achievement of the Administration has been establishing dependable payment mechanisms for fishermen, he added.
President Dr Muizzu highlighted that the implementation of his pledge to guarantee payments within 48 hours has successfully attracted young Maldivians back to the industry.
According to the President, since the last Fishermen’s Day celebrated on 10 December, payments totalling USD 30.5 million have been distributed without interruption, reinforcing progress towards the goal of fully Maldivian-crewed fishing vessels.