NFA supports Bougainville fisheries industry

The National Business

By MARK HAIHUIE
THE Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) has commended the National Fisheries Authority (NFA) for its support towards funding several fisheries projects in Bougainville.
Autonomous Bougainville Government Minister for Primary Industry and Marine Resources Nicholas Darku said National Fisheries Authority had funded several prgrammes in the region.
“I would like to commend National Fisheries Authority for supporting and funding the fisheries activities in the region under various programmes.”
He said the notable programmes are:

  • Financing of small and medium-sized enterprises projects;
  • Fish aggregating;
  • Survey and stock assessment;
  • Grants under agreement to support ad ministrations operations; and
  • Seaweed project.

“The Buka fish market at the water front will become a model fish project when completed,” Darkhu said.
“Fishermen and women, including youths, will access the venue to sell or buy fish.
“Ice will be available to preserve and maintain fish quality.
“Such services are not available currently in Buka.
“The Kieta cool room is about 85 per cent complete and once completed, surrounding coastal areas and island communities will access the venue to sell and buy fish and ice.
“NFA is also funding the fisheries officers’ residence at Kubu.
“We are hoping that these projects will be completed during the year.”
Darku said his department would require further assistance from National Fisheries Authority and commended the agreement signing as step in the right
direction for fisheries in the province.
He was speaking on Tuesday in Buka during the presentation of K15 million to the Autonomous Bougainville Government from National Fisheries Authority for fisheries-related activities.