Africa-Press – Mauritius. A tour aimed at raising awareness among media professionals on sustainable fisheries and marine conservation and showcasing the achievements of blue economy, was held today at the Albion Fisheries Research Centre (AFRC).
The event was attended by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Mauritius, Mr Kan Masahiro, and the Director of Fisheries at the Ministry of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries, Mrs Koonjul.
Organised by the Embassy of Japan in Mauritius in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and AFRC, the tour showcased the achievements of Japan’s longstanding partnership with Mauritius in the development of the blue economy and the sustainable management of marine resources.
During the visit, media representatives were also briefed on the ongoing projects supported by Japan, as well as insights into new initiatives currently in the pipeline.
In his address, Ambassador Kan highlighted the strategic role of the centre in supporting the implementation of Mauritius’ Blue Economy Strategy. He recalled that the AFRC was constructed in 1980 with the grant assistance from the Government of Japan, marking the beginning of Japan’s support to the fisheries sector in Mauritius. The facility, he added, was established as a national hub for research, training and management of artisanal fisheries.
He stated that the media tour is in line with fostering the sustained cooperation between Japan and Mauritius in the fisheries sector and in the conservation of marine ecosystems. He outlined two priority areas of ongoing collaboration namely the development of an integrated coastal ecosystem management system and targeted interventions aimed at improving the livelihoods of coastal communities.
Ambassador Kan further noted that, as island nations, Japan and Mauritius share common interests and vulnerabilities with respect to the sustainable use of marine resources. He emphasised that Japan has supported the development of the Mauritian fisheries sector since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, and reaffirmed Japan’s continued commitment to advancing a sustainable and resilient Blue Economy in Mauritius.
Mrs Koonjul expressed her gratitude to Japan, which through the JICA has provided continuous support to Mauritius in the fields of fisheries training, marine science, aquaculture development and coastal resource management. She highlighted major infrastructural initiatives, namely the establishment of the Fisheries Training and Extension Centre at Pointe aux Sables and the AFRC, both of which have played an integral role in strengthening technical capacity and advancing marine research in Mauritius.
She further called on the media to sensitise the public on the importance of protecting coral reefs, mangroves and marine biodiversity, encouraging broader community participation in conservation efforts.
