PS Fisheries- Dr Christain Ramofafia (Left) and Provincial PS- Erick George Ongoa (Left)
MFMR and MPG Forge Path for Sustainable Fisheries Development with Key Agreements for Bina Harbour Tuna Processing Plant Project.
Solomon Islands, May 2, 2024 — The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR) and the Malaita Provincial Government (MPG) have solidified their partnership through the signing of two Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on May 2, 2024, at the provincial capital Auki. This significant milestone paves the way for the proposed Bina Harbour Tuna Processing Plant (BHTPP) project to move forward.
Dr. Christian Ramofafia, the Fisheries Permanent Secretary, represented the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, while Eric George Ongoa, the Provincial Secretary, represented the Malaita Provincial Government.
The first MOU highlights the commitment of both entities to collaborate and align their visions toward the successful implementation of the BHTPP project. This agreement sets the framework for enhanced cooperation and coordination.
The second MOU focuses on establishing an MFMR office in Auki, funded by the World Bank. This office will play a crucial role in monitoring, compliance, and surveillance activities related to fisheries and marine resources in the region.
Prior to the signing ceremony, Provincial Secretary Ongoa expressed his gratitude and emphasized the importance of the partnership between the Solomon Islands Government and the Malaita Provincial Government. He highlighted the significance of the MOU in advancing economic opportunities and maximizing the benefits for the people of Malaita Province and the Solomon Islands as a whole.
Dr. Christian Ramofafia emphasized the historical context of the partnership, noting the previous MOU signed in 2020 and highlighting the importance of fisheries in contributing to the country’s revenue. He stressed the significance of renewing commitments to ensure sustainable management and development of the fisheries sector.
The establishment of the MFMR office in Auki will not only enhance monitoring and compliance efforts but also facilitate capacity-building initiatives and community engagement programs. The office will leverage digital systems to improve tracking and monitoring of fishing activities, driving economic opportunities and sustainable development.
The signing of these MOUs marks a significant step forward in the journey towards sustainable fisheries development and economic growth in the Solomon Islands. The partnership between the MFMR and the Malaita Provincial Government, supported by the World Bank, underlines the collective commitment to realizing these goals.
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