Fisher folk on the island of Kioa can now store their catch longer following the donation of a solar freezer from the Ministry of Fisheries.

Minister for Fisheries Semi Koroilavesau says the freezer should create the opportunity for the fishermen to establish small businesses and connect with other places for the supply of fish.

The handing over of the freezer came to fruition following the Minister’s visit to Kioa last year.

Previously, the fishermen would buy ice from Taveuni to store their marine commodities but recently the ice plant has not been functioning.

Kioa Island Council member Lotomau Fiafia says this has forced fishermen to take their catch straight to the buyers when they return from fishing.

Sometimes when they reach the buyers, the quality of the fish has deteriorated as they have been caught overnight and the fishermen get less money.

Fiafia says now that they have the freezer, it should make life more convenient for fishermen on the island.

Kioa is one of two Northern maritime communities to receive the freezers from government.

The Ministry will be distributing 60 solar freezers around the country this year.