Human activities such as ship strikes, illegal fishing, and plastic pollution are emerging as some of the biggest threats to marine life in the Pacific, according to conservation experts.

In a bid to boost sustainable marine resource management, the Fisheries Ministry completed its second round of beche-de-mer monitoring and data collection in the northern Lau group.

Cooperatives in Tikina Vanuaso, in Gau, have enhanced their governance and management skills following a three-day Cooperative Management training held at Vanuaso Village.

Fiji’s ability to keep its maritime areas safe has received a major boost, with more than 900 Master Boat Licenses now issued nationwide.

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has stepped up enforcement under its national anti-litter campaign, with new Litter Prevention Officer enforcement training held today.

The Ministry of Fisheries, through its Central Seaweed Team, has successfully established an 80m x 100m seaweed farm at the Natila Seaweeds Farm in Tailevu.

Residents of the Lau Islands are concerned over inconsistent shipping schedules and a critical lack of wharf infrastructure.

The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji is stepping up compliance and enforcement to ensure vessels and seafarers operate safely and protect the marine environment.

The Government has expanded support for rural and maritime communities through its Rural Housing Assistance (RHA) Programme, aimed at improving access to safe, affordable and resilient housing across Fiji.

It has been a successful journey for the youth of Korovuli Village in Macuata, who are leading development projects that support young people while improving village facilities.

Women residing in rural and maritime communities will now have the opportunity to upskill through new small-scale income-generating projects.

Japan has reaffirmed its commitment to further contributing to Fiji’s national development agenda, particularly in rural and maritime areas.