Africa-Press – Mauritius. A Wreath Laying ceremony was organised by the Fishermen Welfare Fund, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries, yesterday at Le Morne Public Beach to commemorate the World Fisheries Day 2025. A symbolic distribution of iceboxes and raincoats to fishers was also held on that occasion.
The World Fisheries Day, celebrated around the world on 21 November each year, aims to highlight the importance of sustainable stocks of fisheries in the world; strengthen human rights for the small-scale fishing communities; make a difference in the working conditions of fishing communities; and eliminate illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing.
The Minister of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries, Dr Arvin Boolell; the Junior Minister, Mr Fabrice David; Members of the National Assembly; as well as other personalities were present at the event.
In his address Minister Boolell recalled the need to empower fishermen by providing them with the right equipment and necessary training so that they become more efficient. He reassured that the Ministry will consider fishermen’s request for the setting-up of more fish landing stations around the island, in addition to ensuring their safety at sea through a vessel monitoring system.
Dr Boolell further emphasised the importance of the community-based coral restoration for lagoons all around the island. He also elaborated on measures introduced for the empowerment of fishermen’s children; the need to monitor unregulated fishing in our Exclusive Economic Zone; and the Assises de l’Economie Bleue.
For his part Junior Minister David observed that marine biodiversity and the fisheries sector in general was thoroughly discussed with during the official visit of French President Macron last week. He also seized the opportunity to commend fishermen for their courage and contribution to the economic development of the country. Several projects are in the pipeline, namely the setting-up of ice-making machines around the island to help fishermen to better store their catch. One machine will shortly be operational in Case Noyale, he said.
For More News And Analysis About Mauritius Follow Africa-Press
