A significant milestone in strengthening community-based fisheries management and marine conservation in Samoa was celebrated on Thursday.
Fifteen villages launched the Village Fisheries Management Plans (VFMPs). Fasito’otai, Vailu’utai, Faleatiu, Satapuala, Lalovi, Fuailolo’o, Satuimalufilufi, Apolima-uta, Apai-uta, Salua-uta, Samatau, Si’ufaga, Pata, Matautu and Sama’ilauano were also given monitoring equipment to track the health and current status of their marine resources and habitats under the Kiwa RESTORE Project, implemented by Conservation International and supported by the Kiwa Initiative.
Conservation International (CI) Samoa Director – Le’ausālilō Leilani Duffy said this launch showed a genuine intent to preserve marine resources and build on food security.
“Community leadership is at the heart of effective marine conservation and the VFMPs represent a shared commitment to protecting Samoa’s coastal resources while supporting sustainable livelihoods, food security and climate resilience,” the CI-Samoa Director said.
The Associate Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Aiolupotea Toni Aiolupotea, said this launch symbolised the shared commitment of government, communities and partners to the sustainable management and protection of Samoa’s marine resources.
