Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, Ahmed Shiyam has commended President Dr Mohamed Muizzu for his efforts in capacity building within the fisheries industry.
The Minister made these remarks while speaking to PSM News at the Masveringe Haveeru event held at Hulhumale' Central Park on the occasion of the Fishermen's Day.
The event was inaugurated by Minister Shiyam, the CEO of the Maldives Industrial Fishing Company (MIFCO) Dr Vitaly Lubimov, and President of the Maldives Seafood Processors and Exporters Association Umar Jamaal. Following the event's launch, Minister Shiyam toured the stalls set up at the event.
Speaking to PSM News after the tour, the Minister highlighted the administration's ongoing efforts to strengthen the fisheries sector. He emphasised that this year's Fishermen's Day was being celebrated while the government has already fulfilled its pledge to ensure that payments for fish sold to MIFCO are released within 48 hours of purchase.
Acknowledging that the primary concerns of fishermen revolve around payments, the Minister assured that the government will tackle other key issues with the same effectiveness as it did for payments. This includes challenges such as the availability of diesel at affordable rates, as well as difficulties in obtaining ice, he stated.
The Minister further noted that efforts to increase storage capacity to ensure that fishermen receive the best prices for their catch will reach completion within the next two years. Noting that these developments will also contribute to capacity building within the fisheries sector, in line with President Dr Muizzu's vision for the sector, the efforts will also increase local engagement and interest in the industry, he added.
'This government is doing more human capacity building in the fisheries sector than any other government. The President's vision for the industry includes locals and youth who have left the industry to return to the sector once again. A fisheries college will be established to engage youth interest, and a fishermen's registry will be compiled. With these changes, the fisheries sector will become a desirable sector for locals,' the Minister explained.
A Fisheries College has already been established in the Maldives in collaboration with the Maldives National University. The college offers field-related courses to support the development of the industry.