Reef fishery monitoring surveys have commenced in M. Muli.
This reef fishery monitoring survey, initiated under the Transforming Fisheries Sector Management in South-West Indian Ocean Region and Maldives Project (TRANSFORM) carried out by the Fisheries Ministry with World Bank grant and loan assistance, is the 6th survey conducted this year by the science and research team of the Maldives Marine Research Institute (MMRI).
The Fisheries Ministry stated that the information and findings from these surveys will pave the way for a better understanding of island-level fisheries and their impacts on the reef fish population. Furthermore, the fisheries management system will be strengthened based on the evidence gathered through the research.
The reef fishery monitoring survey is being conducted with the assistance of the M. Muli Council, local fishermen, fish processors, and fish buyers. The Ministry has noted and thanked them for their assistance.
Under the TRANSFORM project, a survey was previously conducted in Male' Atoll to determine the population of reef fish, sharks, and rays.
The TRANSFORM project, aimed at strengthening fisheries management in the South-West Indian Ocean region, is a project conducted with the objective of enhancing regional cooperation through data collection, research, and information sharing to support evidence-based decision-making, and increasing the capacity of countries to manage and protect the fisheries industry. The goals of this project include promoting sustainable and inclusive practices to expand and diversify the fisheries industry, removing barriers to commercial competitiveness, and increasing women's participation in fisheries management.
Under the TRANSFORM project, $52.8 million has been allocated to the Maldives. This consists of a $26.4 million loan and a $26.4 million grant provided to the Maldives by the International Development Association (IDA), the World Bank branch dedicated to providing assistance to developing countries on concessional terms.
