President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has pledged to eradicate corruption within Maldives Industrial Fishing Company (MIFCO) and implement the changes fishermen have long desired in the fisheries sector.
The President made this statement while speaking to the media following his recent visit to several islands of Huvadhu Atoll.
The President noted that the administration;s significant efforts to bolster the fisheries industry, expressing his belief that fishing has the potential to become the Maldives’ largest income-generating industry. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the development of the tourism industry while also ensuring remains a priority to further diversify the economy.
Emphasising that the current highest priority within the fishing industry is to address the concerns of fishermen and finding amicable solutions, the President noted that the government has been consistently paying fishermen for their catch sold to MIFCO within 48 hours of sale. Highlighting that the government has fulfilled a pledge with this development, he assured the continuity of the practice. He also announced plans to provide affordable fuel for fishing vessels are already underway.
Highlighting other efforts to develop the fisheries industry, the President said the government is bringing about significant changes to MIFCO’s operations. He stated that long-standing issues within the company are being resolved, adding that the company’s management will be strengthened to align with the people’s vision.
The President stated that in order to further strengthen MIFCO’s management, a foreign CEO has been appointed to the company. The current changes brought to MIFCO aims to eliminate unnecessary expenses and improve efficient, he said.
The government has also initiated several key projects to advance the fisheries sector, including the establishment of cold storages and processing plants. The President assured that the projects would progress as planned. The positive changes and improvements that ensue will prompt more benefits and revenue for the fishing industry, ultimately contributing to a stronger economy, he said.