Minister of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam has said that the challenges facing the fisheries industry can only be addressed by empowering those working in the sector.
The Minister made the remarks while speaking at the official launch of the “Aaruveri” Matching Grant Scheme. The scheme provides financial assistance to people working in the fisheries industry across seven areas.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Shiyam said that considerable work is being undertaken to develop the Maldives’ fisheries industry and address the challenges facing the sector.
He said the Government had given particular priority to the fisheries sector since the first day of taking office. However, the Minister noted that the challenges facing the industry cannot be solved by the Government alone, stressing that they can only be addressed by empowering all stakeholders involved in the sector.
“The Government cannot solve all the challenges facing the fisheries industry unless the people working in the sector are empowered. Although the fisheries industry has been operating sustainably for many years, it currently faces very modern-day challenges. One of the most important resources needed to address these challenges is finance, or investment,” the Minister said.
Minister Shiyam said the Government began its work from its first day in office with the understanding that opportunities must also be created for individuals and the private sector. He added that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s vision is to establish a system in which the challenges facing the Maldivian fisheries industry can be addressed by creating a conducive environment for private companies as well.
The grant scheme is being implemented under the TransFORM project being carried out by the Ministry of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources with support from the World Bank, with the aim of advancing and financially strengthening the fisheries industry.
The key objectives of the scheme include promoting energy efficiency in the fisheries industry, advancing sustainable production practices and creating a favourable environment for small and medium-sized businesses.
The scheme also aims to develop mariculture as a profitable industry and establish systems to increase the production of value-added fish products. In addition, creating greater business and employment opportunities for women and young people is among the scheme’s objectives.