It has been nearly a year since the fish aggregating device (FAD) installed near GA. Kondey specifically for sports fishing and recreation by the Ministry of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources drifted away, leaving local fishermen and youth without a vital resource.
Background and Disappearance:
The FAD for Kondey was established on August 27 of last year, located about 5 miles east of GA. Dhigudhoo, as part of the Ministry's nationwide network of FADs dedicated to sports fishing and recreation.
According to the Kondey Council, the FAD drifted away less than a month after its installation. Upon receiving reports of its disappearance, council members conducted a verification trip, searching a 1.5-mile radius around the FAD's designated coordinates. Finding no trace of it, the council officially informed the Ministry of Fisheries in writing on September 29, 2025. In response, the Ministry assured the council that a replacement FAD would be installed. However, almost a year has passed, and a new FAD has yet to be put in place.
Importance to the Community:
Kondey Council Secretary General Amir highlighted the immense significance of the FAD for the island's residents. He noted that Kondey is not primarily a pole-and-line tuna fishing island; instead, residents rely heavily on reef and sports fishing for their daily sustenance.
Furthermore, as the island increasingly steps into the tourism sector and local youth actively engage in recreational fishing, the FAD serves an essential purpose for the community. Amir expressed disappointment that the initial installation provided little to no benefit to the residents due to how quickly it drifted away. He emphasized that the council's most urgent request to the government at this time is to expedite the installation of a replacement FAD for the island.
