President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has concluded his trip to Gaafaru, Kaafu Atoll, for the 41st Fishermen's Day celebrations.
President Solih and Vice President Faisal Naseem travelled to Gaafaru on December 10 to participate in the celebrations. During the trip, President Solih inaugurated the new 25-tonne ice plant on the island and observed a fish filleting contest. The vice president also unveiled a monument placed in the harbour area, which symbolises the friendly and hospitable nature of the fishing community.
Additionally, the president launched five new products by Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO) at a fisheries expo held by the Ministry of Fisheries, Marine Resources and Agriculture. The president also detailed the government's efforts to expand the sector and the positive changes in pricing, while speaking at the official function to celebrate Fishermen's Day.
Furthermore, President Solih met with the fishermen in Gaafaru and listened to their concerns about the future of the country's fishing industry. At the meeting, the fishermen stressed the importance of having fisheries sector representatives at the Fisheries Promotion Board. They also shared with the president other concerns, including financial challenges, banking difficulties, financing for imports, and long waiting times at fish purchasing centres. In this regard, they requested the president to look into ways to alleviate these difficulties, especially during the peak fishing seasons.
During the meeting, President Solih said the administration welcomes the opinions and recommendations of all stakeholders in formulating policies in the respective areas. The president, the vice president and accompanying ministers reassured the fishing community that the issues they raised would be addressed and resolved.