President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has stated that many of the government's ongoing projects aimed at fulfilling the needs of fishermen will be completed within this year and the next, bringing practical benefits to the sector.
He shared this news while speaking on the fourth episode of the "Raees aa Eku" (With the President) podcast. He stated that numerous projects have been initiated to increase the value of fish and fish products, or for value addition. In this regard, he noted that the ongoing project to increase skipjack tuna storage capacity from the current 8,500 tonnes is progressing at a fast pace and will be expanded to 25,000 tonnes within the remaining period of this term. He also expressed his belief that processing capacity will be increased from the current 115 tonnes to 355 tonnes within the same period. Furthermore, he gave his assurance that arrangements for these projects are well-organized to proceed without any concerns.
During today's episode, the President also highlighted the measures being taken to ease the difficulties faced by fishermen in obtaining fuel and ice. Whether in terms of infrastructural development or establishing resources, he stated that many efforts are underway to fulfill the needs of fishermen, and that these actions are being taken by closely listening to the voices of the fishermen. In line with his pledge, he noted that arrangements have been made to ensure fuel is available at sto rates from a designated island in every atoll before the end of this year. He also disclosed information that the work on ice plants, cold storage, and processing facilities initiated in various islands is proceeding at a fast pace. Describing RSW (Refrigerated Sea Water) systems as the future of fisheries, he revealed that additional loans will be issued for this purpose.
