THE Tuvalu Fisheries Authority (TFA) has finalised a landmark funding agreement to secure the long-term sustainability of the nation’s most vital resource.
Earlier this month, the TFA officially signed a grant funding contract with New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) to launch the Tuvalu Fisheries Support Programme Phase III (TFSP3).
This new five-year agreement provides a total budget of $NZD10.9 million, representing a larger resource commitment than either of the two previous phases.
The programme is designed to implement TFA’s Corporate Plan, with a core focus on enhancing economic and food security through sustainable fisheries management.
To ensure successful implementation, New Zealand will also provide two long-term technical advisers.
Key priorities for TFSP3 include strengthening institutional capacity, specifically in financial management, human resources, and governance and maintaining critical assets. One of the first major projects under this phase will be the repair and maintenance of the fisheries vessel Manaui II, to restore its operational readiness.
TFA Managing Director Sam Finikaso praised New Zealand’s decade-long partnership, stating he expects excellent results from this expanded initiative.
The programme will continue to safeguard revenue from oceanic fisheries while increasing support for local fishing and fish marketing initiatives.
