National Fisheries Authority, Papua New Guinea. Managing fisheries for the nation.

National Fisheries Authority, Papua New Guinea
Managing fisheries for the nation

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NFA and NAQIA Celebrates a Milestone

Papua New Guinea through the National Fisheries Authority will now have a world class standard Food Testing laboratory including fisheries products.

This facility was funded at the cost of over K1 million by National Fisheries Authority in partnership with the National Agriculture Quarantine Inspection Authority (NAQIA). Sylvester Pokajam, Managing Director of National Fisheries Authority officially opened this facility on the 2nd April 2009. Speaking during the opening of the lab, Mr Pokajam said that this was a biggest achievement or milestone for National Fisheries Authority and the country at large. This facility has a capacity for chemical testing on any meat, food and live fish.

He said NFA and NAQIA will work together to foster development in fisheries through the use of new laboratory. “For the first time in history of Papua New Guinea since independence Papua New Guinea will now have a food and fisheries testing laboratory here in Papua New Guinea”, Mr Pokajam announced.

“We need such equipment as we have been sending our products down to Australia for food testing which it takes a lot of time. Now we will utilize this facility which is good for the industry and consumers”, he said.

He said NFA has signed MoUs with Police, Defense, Provincial Governments and NAQIA. This was one of the many millstones we have intended in the development of fishers and every organization should follow this principle, Mr Pokajam said.

He said food safety is a global problem and is particularly of concern in countries that do not have adequate systems for control and monitoring to ensure reasonable food safety standards are obtained for the export of their commodity. The laboratory plays a very pivotal role in the regulatory systems in ensuring safe production of food. Mr Pokajam said he was pleased that this country has a world class facility that should boost the consumer confidence.

Mr Andrew Yamanea, Managing Director of National Agriculture Quarantine Inspection Authority thanked NFA for the immense initiative. He said he was pleased to be partner and collaborator in institutional strengthening, capacity building and trade facilitation.

Maritime Delimitation Project Ends Successfully

Three nations signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Port Moresby after successfully completed the first phase of the maritime delimitation project.

Papua New Guinea, Federated State of Micronesia and Solomon have signed the MoU in March 2009 to mark the technical work program for a claim to the Otong Java Plateau undertaken by technical officers from three countries.

The signing of the MoU was in time for them to make single joint submission to the United Nations Commission on the limits of the continental shelf before its deadline in May this year.

This MoU was signed by, Acting Secretary for Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Mr. Gabriel Pepson, His Excellency Mr Samson Pretrick, Ambassador for Federated State of Micronesia based in Fiji and His Excellency Mr Bernard Bata’anaisia’, High Commission of Solomon Islands to Papua New Guinea.

Initially a state party to the 1982 United Nations Convention on the law of Sea is required to submit its claim for an extended shelf ten years from the date of its ratification of the convention.

However due to an overwhelming number of costal states did not able to meet this requirement a new time line was set by State Parties Meeting to the convention on the law of the sea to extend the deadline to May 2009.

Dr Allan Marat, Minister for Attorney General and Justice, expressed his gratitude to the three nations involvement in a single joint submission to the United Nations Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf within the UN deadline in May 2009; claiming an extended continental shelf in the Ontong Java Plateau area.

Dr Marat said that this MOU was a sign of cooperation between three neighboring countries, essentially, to avoid potential disputes by undertaking a single joint submission. “This is a historical event for Federated States of Micronesia, Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands in the Ontong Java Plateau area and likewise for PNG and Federated States of Micronesia also in the Mussau and Eauripik Rise areas’, he said.

“As Small Island Developing countries with lack of adequate resources, had its challenges for our officials to address a complex set of scientific guidelines to claim an extended continental shelf. By working together in a single joint submission served its purpose in the end. Sharing of knowledge, providing assistance to each other, through pooling of resources as good neighbors sharing maritime borders ,” Dr Marat said.

Martitme Women Acquire Fisheries Skills

Gulf women have recently completed a fisheries tailored training jointly sponsored by the National Fisheries Authority and Gulf Provincial Government. The training was conducted by Women in Fisheries Program Leader, Ms Dorothy Worogop of National Fisheries College.

The training was held from 18th -25th February 2009 in which participants acquired certificate in Women in Fisheries Training. Ms Worogop said participants representing for the training came from all the districts of Kerema, Gulf Province.

They acquired knowledge and skills in fisheries especially Post Harvest, Quality Standards, Quality Assessment of Fisheries Products, Preservation Methods, Filleting, Packaging of Fish Fillets, Processing and packaging of Prawns.

She said the women also hands-on Fisheries training particularly in Fisheries Business Record Keeping, Cash Flow Budgets, Costing, Pricing, Financial Reports – Profit and Loss Calculation and Marketing.

In a small closing ceremony, Ms Worogop thanked the National Fisheries Authority and the Gulf Provincial Government especially Fisheries Division for funding the training. She said the National Fisheries Authority has always made such a vital contribution towards the training and capacity building.

Ms Worogop encouraged the participants to implement what they have been learnt during the training as Gulf Province has an abundance of high valued fisheries products that are in high demand both in domestic and international markets

NFA Donate Vehicle to Police Department

The National Fisheries Authority has donated a brand new vehicle to the Police Department to effectively carry out its surveillance and enforcement duties.

Sylvester Pokajam Managing Director of National Fisheries Authority presented the key of a new Toyota Land cruiser (4x4) in the presence of PNG Police Commissioner Mr Garry Baki, Mr Raphael Huafolo, senior officers of Royal PNG Constabulary (RPNGC) and NFA staff in front of police headquarters in Port Moresby.

Mr Pokajam said that this gesture is important for the implement the MOA between NFA and RPNGC. He said the MOU is in an infant stage but this assistance will pave the way to carry out delegated functions such as enforcement and surveillance duties. He also said that NFA has similar existing MOA with PNG Deference Force to conduct ten fisheries patrols annually and this is the most effective type of arrangement that NFA has framed.

“Managing and developing fisheries resources in Papua New Guinea need effective and efficient management arrangements in achieving these objectives”, Mr Pokajam said.

Mr Pokajam said NFA has recognized the value of the cooperation between the parties in ensuring the sustainable development of fisheries resources and to enable our presence for deterrence and protection of the nation’s fisheries resources. Mr Pokajam said the Police will use this vehicle to support them to combat IUU fishing that continues to undermine the existence of Enforcement. He called on the police to look after the vehicle properly as such assets are very expensive nowadays.

Police Commissioner Garry Baki thanked the National Fisheries Authority for the brand new vehicle. Mr Baki assured NFA that this vehicle will be utilized to carry out enforcement and surveillance duties. “I look forward to work together with NFA to effectively managing our fisheries and marine resources in our country”, Mr Baki said.

PNG Hosts CTI Meeting

Papua New Guinea through the National Fisheries Authority (NFA) and Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) have successfully hosted Coral Triangle Initiative Meeting in Port Moresby on the 9-11 March 2009.

Minister for Environment and Conservation, Honourable Benny Allan officially opened the third senior officials and ministerial meetings. He said majority of Papua New Guineans that live along coastline depend on inshore marine resources for income and food security and this initiative will greatly benefit PNG.

This meeting was very paramount important event in the CTI calendar as the six ministers from the Coral Triangle Area have adopt the final regional plan of action for CTI. This has brought the foundation for creation of a new secretariat focused on Coral Reefs, Fisheries, and Food Security but most importantly a new Regional Fisheries Organisation (RFMO) that brings the Pacific and Asia in one forum to discuss matters of regional and global status.

The ministers from six countries including Indonesia (Central and Eastern), Timor-Leste, the Philippine, Malaysia (part of Borneo), Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea have signed the Declaration which forms the basis for developing the “Leaders Declaration” during the world oceans (WOC) summit in Manado, Indonesia. This meeting had also fostered and brought together six (6) governments in a multilateral partnership to conserve the extraordinary marine life in the region that covers all or parts of the Exclusive Economic Zones.

Mr Sylvester Pokajam Managing Director of National Fisheries Authority said that NFA is taking a bold step to support CTI as NFA is one of the leading organisations in terms of fisheries developments, management and conservation programs. He said just to name few; NFA has a fully functional Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) that monitors all fishing activities especially by boats in the seas, some Management Plans developed for all fisheries of national importance, protection of fish nursery grounds (eg. Mogado Square), Tuna Management Plan and other policies and fisheries development plans for the sustainability of fisheries and marine resources in PNG and the region at large.

Mr Pokajam revealed that in line with the Papua New Guinea Prime Minister’s Commitment to Climate Change, National Fisheries Authority will continue to support CTI.

He said NFA will provide support for CTI and its implementation of Regional Plan Of Action (RPOA) and also mainly concentrate on National Plan Of Action (NPOA) that exemplifies RPOAS. Mr Pokajam also said that NFA has Commitment and supported other meetings such as;
Logistics to a value of just over K200, 000, Funded national workshops/conferences, Prepared to support CTI if clearly directed in the future and Continue to provide technical advice and any other support necessary for CTI.

New Export Criteria for Regulating Fish and Fishery Products

Food safety is a big challenge in the world for the human consumption especially in European Union (EU) markets. Local food especially fish and fishery resources that are produced and sold in the domestic and international markets need to meet certain expectations to penetrate into such markets.

Mr Noan Pakop, Executive Manager for Monitoring Control & Surveillance of National Fisheries Authority said this during the launching of revised Fish Quality Control (exports) standards at Holiday Inn in Port Moresby on the 26, January 2009. Mr Pakop said National Fisheries Authority as the government’s agency responsible for the management and sustainable development of fisheries in Papua New Guinea has a very important role to play in the nation and region to ensure safe production and marketing of fish and fishery products.

Mr Pakop said that nowadays food safety is a paramount concern where fishery products can be contaminated by biological hazards such as bacteria, virus and other parasites which may lead to food poison or toxins. He said given the prevailing conditions of unsafe fish and fishery products that can harm the consumer’s health, it is paramount importance that these conditions are regulated and kept within the set guidelines.

Mr Pakop said more investments are coming into the fisheries sector and more markets are opening up for our processors and exporters with newer emerging market regulations and consumer’s expectations. He said NFA’s Audit and Certificate Unit, (ACU) has been reviewing the whole safety regulations system an effective, efficient, and consistent programme that has the confidence of the stakeholders.

National Fisheries Authority through the Audit and Certificate Unit has a mission to protect consumers and enhance PNG’s position as a trusted supplier of safe fish and fisheries products.

Mr Pakop said that the standard is living document and any comments received from you officially is seen as a way forward for improvement and collaborative effort in providing in safe food for our consumers domestically and internationally. The revised fish Quality Control (Export) Standards is now known as the PNG Standards for fish and fisher products 2009.

NFA Assists NCDC Sea Park Project with K300, 000

National Fisheries Authority (NFA) has assisted National Capital District Commission (NCDC) with K300, 000 to repair and renovate the Sea Park Observatory at Ela Beach and along Koki Bay in Port Moresby. On behalf of Fisheries Minister and the Managing Director Mr Terry Ward, Financial Controller of National Fisheries Authority presented the cheque to Governor of NCDC Hon Powes Parkop in January, 2009. Work has already commenced and this money will go towards the building of a jetty, an underwater observatory, a pier, a car park, sitting area and sea wall.

Mr Pakop thanked NFA for taking the lead in contributing to the development of the Sea Park. “It is very important that we set a target to aim for the completion of the sea park development and the ring road around the Paga Hill”, Mr Pakop said. NFA’s early contribution for the development of Sea Park project may pave way for NFA to have new fisheries office complex with in the project area.

After the presentation of the K300, 000 to NCDC Hon. Powes Pakop has written a letter to Mr Leslie Alu, NCDC City Manager to fast track the project including NFA Aquarium and an Office by no later than 2011. According to the project plan, NFA head office is expected to be fully constructed in 2011.

Wewak Fish Market and Jetty Project Commences Now

Work has already commenced in preparation for the construction of one of the biggest Fish Markets and Jetties in Papua New Guinea. The Wewak Market Improvement Project-minor work has already commenced since February 2009 by Greenhill Investment Ltd. All the formalities were signed by Greenhill Investment representative and National Fisheries Authority’s representatives in Port Moresby to kick start the project. The National Fisheries Authority is fully committed to support this valuable project to be successful.

This will be a minor work in preparation for the Wewak Jetty and Fish Market Project. A minor work in backfilling for the Wewak jetty and Market Project will cost K3 million and this was funded by the government of PNG as per the MOU between the government of Japan and government of PNG. This minor work is expected to complete in April 2009 as the Fish Market and Jetty construction will kick start in late May 2009.

The Japanese government will fund the construction of jetty and the market and it will be constructed by Japanese based company. The JICA team in Japan has already screened the successful bidders who will construct this market and the jetty.

Fisheries Course Attracts More Overseas Students

Nine Solomon Islands students are undertaking studies in Fisheries program at the University of Vudal in the East New Britain Province. The Nine students including a female from Solomon Islands are doing first year in fisheries at Vudal University and next year they will go to National Fisheries Collage in Kavieng and complete their diploma program.

After successful completion of the diploma program they will proceed to the bachelor programme in fisheries. “It’s been a great privilege for us to come to this university because of the fisheries course”, the students said. They said that they are interested to take up fisheries studies as fisheries and marine resources generate a lot of income into their country and when they return to Solomon Islands they will contribute meaningfully to the development of fisheries and marine resources sector.

Professor Philip Siaguru Vice Chancellor of University of Vudal said that for the first time in history of Vudal University, this would be the first lot of overseas students taking fisheries studies. He said the Fisheries degree is the new program or course that was introduced but already overseas students are attracted to this program. Prof Siaguru said that the nine students made into Vudal University after a visit to Vudal by Solomon Islands High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea Mr Bernard Bataa’sia.

Prof Siaguru said that Papua New Guinea has contributed immensely to the human resources development of Solomon Islands and now the government of Solomon Islands has ties with PNG government through a cooperation program. He said this has been the start and there are more fisheries students expected from overseas and PNG from next year and onwards.

Four New houses for NFA Staff

For the first time since the inception of National Fisheries Authority (NFA) as a corporate entity, NFA will now have four new houses to cater for its staff accommodation problem. Housing is one of the major problems in Papua New Guinea that most companies could not accommodate all the staff with accommodation but NFA has an immense plan to cater for its staff and build houses for staff. Four houses have already been constructed by Wel Builders in Kanudi estate and they are expected to be completed in May this year. There are only 30 houses at Kanudi for staff and with the new houses will add up to 34 houses.

Mr Sylvester Pokajam, Managing Director of National Fisheries Authority said that NFA has got some big plans to prioritize its staff with basic necessities like accommodation and this was the start.

Mr Pokajam said that NFA will try its best to provide accommodation to all the junior officers, telephonists and receptionists at Kanudi estate. “We have big plans to build more houses at Kanudi and accommodate all the junior officers and place the senior officers outside of Kanudi’, Sylvester Pokajam said.

Maritime Provinces Benefit from NFA through Partnership

Papua New Guinea Maritime Provinces are benefiting from the National Fisheries Authority through Partnership arrangements. Mr John Kasu, Executive Manager for Corporate services, said during the opening of Provincial Fisheries Conference held in Wewak from 17-21 November, 2008. He said partnership arrangement has improved tremendously and many notable changes have taken place in the province for the last few years.

“Many provinces are now benefiting from this arrangement through the execution of the Monitoring Control and Surveillance delegated functions which is generating additional revenue for the provinces, thus enormously reducing cost for the National Fisheries Authority”, Mr Kasu said. He said NFA and the 14 maritime provinces have signed Memorandum of Agreement related to Fisheries Management and Development; whereby fisheries sector performance has improved significantly in the last 10 years. The country’s value of export of fisheries products increased dramatically to K300 Million in 2006 which was an indicative of impressive record of performance.

The National Fisheries Authority has already paid over K200m as dividends to the National government in the last 4 years reflecting an excellent sector performance and growth. This remarkable achievement is attributed to the expansion and growth of the fishing industry and the establishment of the National Fisheries Authority entrusted with the responsibility for the management of the nation’s vast fisheries resources.

Mr Kasu said that in the past yeas NFA has focused more on industry management and development thus giving less attention on the management and development of the artisanal fisheries sector in the provinces.

He said despite these achievements there is still much more that needs to be done to effectively stimulate effective participation by fishing communities who are the target recipients. “In light of that it was indeed very crucial for us as service providers to ensure that relevant policies are developed and services are delivered accordingly and provinces”, Mr Kasu said.

He told meeting participants to carefully examine various issues affecting the provinces and to also examine the best possible development options that both parties can pursue to achieve the desired results in the province. “Your participation is indeed very important in this aspect and I trust that you will make good use of this opportunity”, Mr Kasu said.

PNG Government Furnishes Tuna Commission Office

The Papua New Guinea Government through the National Fisheries Authority has donated office furnishings to the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) at a cost of US$110,000.

Honourable Ben Semri officially handed over the decorated office to the Commission’s Executive Director, Mr Andrew Wright in Pohnpei on October 1, 2008. The furnishings comprised of curtains, chairs, tables and fixtures carved from some of Papua New Guinea’s most renowned hardwoods of rosewood and black ebony.

Minister Semri told a gathering of fisheries scientists that were attending the Fourth Session of the Technical Compliance Committee meeting and invited renowned local citizens that he hoped this gesture by the Government will boost the morale of the Commission office staff.He said the initiative taken by the Government of PNG to help furnish the Commission office is a token of our appreciation of the important function of the WCPFC to ensure through effective management, the long term conservation, sustainable development and utilization of highly migratory fish stocks in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean.

“As we are all aware, our region boasts the last remaining healthy tuna stocks in the world and it is therefore very important and it is incumbent upon all countries who are signatory to this Convention to make every effort, both through normal proceedings or business of the Commission or in some other areas to ensure that our Commission functions effectively for the sake of proper management of our tuna resources for this generation and generations to come. With this in mind, I trust the furnishing of the Commission’s office will boost the morale of the Commission secretariat and its staff so that they can effectively work towards achieving the goals and objectives of the Commission, thus performing at the highest level possible,” Minister Semri said.
Nauru Fisheries Delegation tour PNG for possible fisheries investment

He said his visit is very significant on the development of the Pacific Industrial Zone and this would pave the way for other PNA member countries to come to PNG and invest. He also said that his visit was not merely fisheries but also other possible trade and investment opportunities in PNG.

“The PNA block contributes over 20% of the world’s tuna catch and we, as Small Island developing states should take advantage and maximize the tuna resource”, the President said. He was so keen to see that PNG is taking the lead in the region. Mr Stephen said the concept of the Pacific Marine Industrial Zone has been involved a lot of talking but now it comes to a stage where talking has to stopped and action has to taken.

Meanwhile Minister for Fisheries Hon. Ben Semri expressed sincere gratitude to the President and his delegation on behalf of National Fisheries Authority and the Government of Papua New Guinea. Mr Semri said Papua New Guinea is ready to assist any PNA member country or other Pacific Island countries to come to PNG and invest.

Korean Delegation shows interest in Pacific Marine Zone

Foreign Investors are keen to invest in the government’s proposed Pacific Marine Zone in Madang. Early December this year, a Korean delegation who was interested in fisheries had a consultation meeting with National Fisheries Authority. Executive Manager for Corporate Services Mr John Kasu thanked the Korean delegation for the interest in the Pacific Marine Zone.

Mr Kasu assured the investors that National Fisheries Authority will provide the necessary information that they may need to support their investment. The Korean delegation had a brief meeting with NFA representatives to ascertain NFA incentives. Currently NFA has fully supported the proposed Pacific marine Zone to be successful and this may be attractive to Korean Delegations for the investment purposes.

Nauru Fisheries Delegation tour PNG for possible fisheries investment

The President of Republic of Nauru, His Excellency Honourable Marcus Stephen and his delegation including Nauru’s Fisheries Minister Honourable Ronald Kun visited Papua New Guinea through National Fisheries Authority to tour PNG fishing companies especially RD cannery and Frabelle PNG Ltd. This official visit was made on the 13-16 October, 2008 to see the Pacific Marine Industrial Zone in Madang for possible trade and investment opportunity. “I am so interested to see PNG government’s proposed Pacific Industrial Zone”, the President of Nauru said. He said his visit is very significant on the development of the Pacific Industrial Zone and this would pave the way for other PNA member countries to come to PNG and invest. He also said that his visit was not merely fisheries but also other possible trade and investment opportunities in PNG.

Fisheries College Creates History

First Diploma in Fisheries and Marine Resources students graduated on the 21 November 2008 at the National Fisheries College in Kavieng. There were seven students graduated namely; Glenda Barry, Augustine Galuwa, Francis Gove, Leornard Johak, Robert Kenove, Jack Michael, and Mark Tasi Tava.

This became successful through a collaborative effort by National Fisheries Authority, Vudal University, Office of Higher Education and the GTZ.

Speaking during the graduation ceremony, Chancellor of the University of Vudal Sir Rabbie Namaliu said fisheries and marine resources were vital commodities for PNG as they continue to contribute significantly to the region and international community. Sir Rabbie said that National Fisheries Authority has contributed a lot in human resources development by producing its own trained technical scientist in fisheries and marine resources.

He further called on the education department to reintroduce fisheries disciple in the universities in the country so that more students can study fisheries and meet the demand of fishing industry in PNG.

NFA Provides Training Skills

National Fisheries Authority will continue to provide essential training to its staff where required. Mr John Kasu, Executive Manager for Corporate Services said this during the opening session of Customer Services Training that NFA values its staff by providing competency related courses to equip staff to enhance their profession. “This is bonus for you because some of the skills that you have learnt within few days of training have not been thought at the colleges or even at the universities”. He said during the presentation of certificates to the staff.

He said NFA through the Corporate Services will ensure that special skills and training will be made available to every staff to enrich their career with fisheries.

Mr Kasu said this is not the first time that NFA has provided this kind of training to its staff. Over the years NFA has provided this kind of training and would continue to provide special training.

There were two set of course; Business Report writing and the Quality Customers services. This was facilitated by Mr Peter Tasin at Gateway hotel in Port Moresby in October this year. NFA Corporate Services believes that these two courses will certainly boost the competency level of staff to effectively perform their duties.

Another Tuna JV for Madang

Papua New Guinea through the National Fisheries Authority will continue to benefit from fisheries investments in the country. RD Corporation of Philippines and Fairwell Fishery of Taiwan have signed an agreement with the government of PNG to build a fish processing plant in Madang. The plant will initially cost at least US$40 million (K260 million) which is expected to be established within the government’s proposed establishment of Pacific Marine Industrial Zone in Madang Province.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in August, 20th 2008 by Hon. Ben Semri, Minister for Fisheries, Hon. Gabriel Kapris, Minister for Trade and Industry and company representatives.

Speaking during the signing of ceremony Hon. Ben Semri assured investor that PNG is a place to enjoy investment. “ In light of this development I can safely say that PNG is at a threshold of becoming a major tuna processing hub in the region that would not only benefit PNG but also our neighbouring Pacific Island countries”, he said.

He extended his invitation to other pacific Island countries to consider this opportunity in PNG especially the marine park. He said currently 30% of tuna catch in PNG is processed onshore, however, PNG government through NFA intends to increase that to 75%.

General Manager of Fairwell Fishery, Mr Jesse Huang and President of RD Group of Companies Mr Rodrigo Rivera thanked the government of PNG and NFA for allowing them to make business in PNG particularly through this Joint Venture tuna plant. Mr Huang said this new processing facility will boost further fishing activities and marketing of tuna products to the world markets.

He said as the new opportunities pop up, the creation of local employment and new local business to support the operations will be realized and contribute substantially to the local economy. Mr Rivera said this great country headed by Prime Minister and ably supported by great ministers for giving them the chance to be of service to this nation. “We want to leave a legacy of altruism, of integrity, of quality and of service’, Mr Rivera said.

National Fisheries College participates in 2008 Career Exposition

National Fisheries College participated in 2008 Career Exposition organized by Department of Education at Don Bosco Technical College in Port Moresby.

The theme of the exposition was “better information, better choices, better future”. This exposition was held from the 2 – 4 September this year. Students from all over NCD and Central Province attended this exposition.

During the opening session, invited guest speaker NCD Governor Powes Pakop assured the student that nothing is impossible in this world. He said if they can make the right choice with the right information they can do better than him. He called on the students to think beyond and excel their careers.In a small closing ceremony National Fisheries Authority was given a certificate in recognition of their participation in the 2008 career exposition.

Speaking during the presentation Mr Henao Tau Nauna Acting Director of NCD Education Division thanked NFA and NFC for their participation. “Your exhibition will allow our students to make better choice for their future”, Mrs Lepapa Kopi NCD Guidance Officer said this.

The exhibition attracted a lot of students in NCD and as a result most of the students have raised a lot of concerns and queries regarding fisheries and NFA and NFC officers attended to the students efficiently.

NFA participates in Manus Provincial Show

National Fisheries Authority has participated in the Manus Provincial show held from the 15-19 September 2008. The show had a variety of activities including exhibitions from various business groups in Papua New Guinea.

There were many exhibitions but NFA’s exhibition was eye catching as more fish farmers and artisanal fishermen flocked in to collect Provincial Development Fund (PDF) forms and marketing information. A lot of the fish farmers expressed their sentiments that they have been sacrificed for the last 10-15 years without any support from the government or even any aid from any donor agencies.

They were amazing to learn that NFA will assist fish farmers. Due to the geographical barriers communication is a problem that most of the fishermen and fish farmers did not get the information regarding PDF in the media and this exhibition provided an avenue for the fish farmers to ask questions and know more about PDF fund.

Mr Paso Pohei Provincial Fisheries Advisor thanked NFA on behalf of the provincial government for its commitment in supporting provincial fisheries activities. He also thanked Mr Sylvester Pokajam and the management team of NFA for the continuous support.

NFA Commits K5000 to PNG Ports Conference

Business partnership is a mutual satisfaction for any organization to advance. National Fisheries Authority has sponsored PNG Ports Corporation with K5, 000 to support the staging of Pacific Ports Association Conference that was held on the 21-23 May 2008.
NFA’s sponsorship falls under silver category

NFA sees that Ports services are live-blood of maritime trade handling functions for the fish processing industry of PNG. Executive Manager for Corporate Services Mr John Kasu presented the cheque to PNG Ports Corporation on behalf of NFA.

Speaking while acknowledging varies sponsors during media conference Chief Executive Officer of PNG Ports Corporation Mr Brian Riches thanked all the sponsors for their generous support and commitment. He said the Objective of the conference is to promote regional cooperation, friendship and understanding between member ports and ports users around the Pacific.

PNG host WCPFC Meeting Successfully

Papua New Guinea through the National Fisheries Authority has successfully hosted Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) meeting held on the 4th- 22nd August 2008. Scientists, fisheries managers and tuna representatives from all over the world have attended the fourth annual session of the meeting.

This meeting was successfully eventuated in PNG as the Scientific Committee advises the Commission on the collection and analysis of scientific data from tuna fisheries operating throughout the Western and Central Pacific, Mr Andrew Wright, Executive Director of the Commission said.

Dr. Dae-Yeon Moon chairman of the meeting explained that “this information will be used to assess the health of the main tuna stocks of yellowfin, bigeye, albacore, and skipjack tuna and advise the Commission on measures needed to promote their sustainable use and conservation”. He said the Committee will also consider issues related to the status of other non-target species taken in tuna fisheries which include sea birds, sharks and sea turtles – particularly efforts to mitigate their catch.

The WCPFC made a record of 2.4 million of metric tones of tuna catch this year with Papua New Guinea contributing 20% of the harvest. This figure reflects the previous record of 2.28 million mt for last year. Western and Central Pacific alone contribute over 50% of tuna catch globally.

Mr Wright said during the opening of the session in Port Moresby at Crowne Plaza that PNG is very proactive in terms of trying to promote the development of domestic tuna industry. He further added that not only promoting the development of tuna industry in PNG but also abroad because tuna is a shared resource. “PNG is co-operating with other members of the commission to promote sustainable utilization of resources’’, he said.

Speaking during the opening of the meeting Fisheries Minister Honourable Ben Semri said that the average catch over the last five years from this fishery now exceeds 300,000t which exceeded 400,000t in 2006 for the first time. Mr Semri said almost 150,000t of this catch is now processed on shore with majority of PNG’s export heading for Europe and US.

Meanwhile Sylvester Pokajam Managing Director of National Fisheries Authority commented the fishing industry and other corporate entities for genuine cooperation for their assistance in supporting to host the meeting. He said the kid of support we receive from the private sector signify to the world that we are fully cooperate to develop our fishers sector. On behalf of the National Fisheries Authority, the board and the minister he thanked;
• PNG Fishing Industry Association for K10, 000
• RD Tuna Cannery (PNG) for K5,000
• Frabelle (PNG) for K5,000
• South Seas Tuna for K5,000
• PNG Ports Corporation K5,000
• National Development Bank K5,000
• International Food Corporation (IFC) K5,000
• Fairwell Fishery K17,500.

NFA RCPNG sign MOA to Combat Illegal Fishing Activities

The National Fisheries Authority (NFA) and the Royal Constabulary of Papua New Guinea (RCPNG) have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to work together on combating illegal fishing activities in Papua New Guinea waters.

The MOA is specific to RCPNG members to assist with the enforcement of the Fisheries Management Act 1998 and its regulating instruments to ensure sustainable use of fisheries resources, investigations and prosecution of fisheries matters. The signing also allows members of the Police Department to supply the much needed support within the inshore fisheries areas patrolled by inshore-crafts which have been bought by NFA. This area will come under the respective Provincial Police Commanders care and control.

The common workable areas pertaining to this Agreement are as follows:

a) cooperation in taking action to prevent and deter fisheries offences according to law;
b) the National Fisheries Authority to call upon and utilize the services of RCPNG in carrying out fisheries compliance services when required;
c) the provision of cost efficient, effective and responsive compliance services to NFA’s clients and stakeholders;
d) address the need for RCPNG to manage its personnel and resources in a manner consistent with MOA;
e) both parties to have mutual reciprocal/joint surveillance and enforcement programs;
f) to enable fisheries officers to attend basic investigation and prosecution training at the RCPNG Training College; and
g) the need for empowerment of fisheries enforcement officers as Police Reservists to the RCPNG for the purpose of general enforcement duties.

The MOA was signed July 28, 2008 between NFA Managing Director, Mr Sylvester Pokajam and Mr. Gary Baki, the RCPNG Commissioner and was witnessed by key senior officers of both parties.

Mr. Pokajam said during the signing ceremony that the Agreement will be reviewed every two years from the date of this signing. NFA will support the start of this Agreement with K0.5million (half a million kina) for services provided by RCPNG under this Agreement. NFA has a similar Agreement with the Papua New Guinea Defense Force.

He said police personnel have been working very well with fisheries enforcement officers in deterring illegal fishing activities “at all times and at odd hours too” in their areas of duty and he would want it further enhanced under this MOA.

Commissioner Baki responded that “policing is challenging both on land and at sea”. He said RCPNG will do its best under this MOA in policing PNG waters. “This money will be put to good use to also assist RCPNG intelligence. “I thank NFA on behalf of the RCPNG for this assistance.

Pokajam Calls on More Chinese into Fishing

PNG through the National Fisheries Authority called on more Chinese investors to invest in PNG especially in Fisheries. Speaking during Investment Promotion Authority and Chinese Trade and Investment Symposium Mr. Sylvester Pokajam Acting Managing Director of National Fisheries Authority called on the delegates to establish fish processing plants and fish in PNG waters and process in PNG.

Currently PNG got processing and loining plants including; Fairwell (PNG) Fishing Net Mending and Ice Making Factory in Manus, South Seas Tuna Corporation (SSTC) a loining plant in Wewak, RD Tuna canners in Madang, the Proposed Pacific Marine Industrial Zone to be staged in Madang, Philippines/ Thai JV Tuna Canning plant to be established in Lae soon, IFC Tuna Processing Plant in Lae, Frabelle Fish Cannery and Loining Plant in Lae, Chinese Cold Storage Plant in Lae and of course Longline Processing in Port Moresby.

Mr. Pokajam said fisheries is developing gradually as investors perceived that PNG through NFA got sound management of fisheries resources by PNG and other PNA countries and also PNG has got clear and consistent government policy to promote and protect onshore fisheries investment.

Despite National Fisheries Authority licensed ten Chinese purse seine vessels under bilateral access agreement, Mr. Sylvester Pokajam called on the delegates for more investment in fisheries as NFA is continuously managing fisheries and marine resources on a sustainable basis. This symposium showcased some of the Fish processing and plants in PNG as the delegation traveled to Lae and Madang respectively to see the Tuna procession plants and the canneries.

Minister Semri Launches NFA Corporate Plan

National Fisheries Authority has successfully launched the Corporate Plan for 2008-2012 on the 30th of July this year. This launching was officiated by Hon Ben Semri Minister for Fisheries. Speaking during the launching Mr Semri said that NFA is one of the leading fisheries agencies within our region in terms of performances and influences at the negotiating table and this Corporate Plan will drive the authority to fulfill its vision and its mission.

As a way forward this corporate plan anchors its vision on Effectively Managing our Fisheries and Marine Resources for Sustainable and Equitable Benefit. He said it a is critical that NFA strives to fully implement the priority action areas that it has set for itself in order to edge closer to the achievement of this vision statement.

“As a minister responsible for the overall fisheries policies development , I would like to see that this Corporate Plan ensures that local participation in the industry is improved greatly so that our people may not become spectators instead become part takers”, Mr Semri said.

He also said that aquaculture should also be developed in such a way that food security for our people is secured and sustained.

Meanwhile Tau Valu NFA Acting Board Chairman thanked Mr Sylvester Pokajam, executive managers and senior officers in successfully producing the corporate plan. He said it was collective ideas and information that eventually brought this corporate plan. He said as a acting chairman it is a challenge to ensure that there is a strong , effective and transparent National Fisheries Board in place to guide and monitor the work programs of the authority.

Ice Making Facility for East New Britain

The artisanal fishermen will now enjoy in fishing ventures as the Kokopo Ice Making Facility was officially handed over to the provincial government by National Fisheries Authority (NFA) in July 2008. The facility was donated and installed by Overseas Fishery Corporation Foundation (OFCF) of Japan.

This facility consists of ice making machine, an ice crusher set and a chest freezer. The total cost of facility is about K130, 000 and has a capacity to produce 24 blocks of ice per a day. Speaking on behalf of Acting Managing Director Mr Sylvester Pokajam of National Fisheries Authority Mr Leka Pitoi, Industry Coordinator said that the Japanese assistance came about after PNG through the National Fisheries Authority allowed access for Japanese Fishing Vessels through Bilateral Fishing Access Agreement signed to fish in PNG’s EEZ in 2006 after 19 years of absence. Mr Pitoi said this project is one of the first two projects by OFCF after PNG and Japan reestablished relationship in fisheries sector since 2006.

“East New Britain (ENB) Province is fortunate that it is the first province to be the beneficiary of the OFCF programme apart from the National Fisheries College “, Mr Pitoi said. He said to support the new development initiatives in the province, it is hoped that the importance of fisheries sector is elevated to a higher level as one of the priority areas. NFA ascertain that ENB province has the capacity to absorb such initiatives and capable of converting these assets into their economic value for the development of the province.

Meanwhile Governor of East New Britain Province Mr Leo Dion thanked NFA on behalf his people and commented NFA for initiating this crucial project in the province. Mr Dion said the country has gone into problems, ups and downs related to HIV/AIDS, robbery, high cost of fuel etc but with fisheries it’s continuously developing optimistically. He said in 2006 a MoU was signed between NFA and ENB provincial government in partnership and management of fisheries development and now they have seen a lot of impacts from this MoU. “I would like to thank the Management and the staff of NFA for allowing a worthy project to be staged in the Project”, Mr. Dion said. He called on the people to make use of the facility by starting small business and access the facility.

NFA allocates K1 million to Local fishermen

Local fishermen, fishing groups and fish farmers would now be able to progress further or start new fishing venture after a funding allocation of K1million was made by National Fisheries Authority.

A/Managing Director of National Fisheries Authority Mr. Sylvester Pokajam announced this in March this year when presenting a K90, 000 cheque to the NCD Youth Rehabilitation Care Centre. He said for the past three years NFA has supported small scale fisheries projects developments and this would be another milestone for the National Fisheries Authority to support more projects throughout PNG.

He said youth population comprised of 50% of the total population but a lot of them don’t have employment opportunities. Mr. Pokajam said this would certainly create employment opportunities. “We have big markets in NCD and we would like to see all the youths involve in fishing activities and make use of the money given”, He said.

Executive Manger for Provincial Support and Industry Development Unit, Ms Welete Wararu said that of the K1 million, K400 000 is from the Project Development Fund (PDF) whilst K600 000 is from the NFA 2008 budget allocation through its operational funds from provincial grants to assist the development of artisanal fisheries sector. Ms. Wararu said that NFA has received overwhelming responses of PDF application and they have successfully considered 58 applicants, whom, cheques have already been paid to each successful applicant. Most of the fish farmers and fishermen had shown their gratitude to the NFA vial email, letters and telephone. “It was amazing for me as I read the post courier that I would be receiving K10 000 from the PDF project”, Mr Michael one of the recipients of the funds from NFA.

Ms. Wararu thanked the successful applicants for their interests in developing small scale fishing businesses and encouraged them to work hard and become successful fishermen and women.

One more Cannery for Lae soon

One more tuna cannery is now earmarked for construction in Lae. According to Executive Manager for Monitoring and Control Surveillance Mr Noan Pakop.
Mr. Pakop revealed this while speaking on behalf of Acting Managing Director of National Fisheries Authority Mr Sylvester Pokajam in a small closing ceremony for the Provincial Fisheries Officers’ training workshop held in Mandang recently.

He said more investors are coming into PNG because of good investment opportunities like Relaxation of Rules Of Origin in the European Union market. He said that means PNG can source fish globally and process here which will have duty free market access to EU markets. “This is a great achievement for PNG during European Partnership Agreement negotiation last year and the signing of this Interim Agreement,” Mr Pakop said.

He said fisheries sector has tremendously boomed in the last 8-10 years and its activities will continue to increase as long as we stay focused. He said PNG is one of the countries of EU approval that can export to the EU market.

He said that NFA is ensuring that the Government Medium Term Development Strategy on Fisheries Export Driven & Recovery Strategy is achieved, through encouraging downstream processing, value-addition and facilitation of exports.

As per the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare’s speech during 2007 NFA dividend payment ceremony, he wanted to see in the next 10-15 years the fisheries sector should generate 100,000 employment and 1 billion export revenue annually. Therefore, NFA in consultation with other Government line agencies has been working hard in achieving this challenge and work has already been undertaken to build a Marine Industrial Park here in PNG. This is a very large investment commitment the Government has made and will see PNG as the Tuna Capital in the Pacific.

Provincial Fisheries Officers Trained on EU Standard

The National Fisheries Authority (NFA) has successfully conducted a month workshop to train Provincial Fisheries Officers on European Union (EU) standard. The training was held at the Madang Resort Hotel, which included Provincial Fisheries Officers from East Sepik, Madang, Morobe, New Ireland, Milne Bay, Western and Central Province.

Their training was focused on the EU Regulations, PNG Standards and Inspection Systems for Fish and Fishery Products. In a small closing ceremony on behalf of NFA Managing Director Mr. Sylvester Pokajam, Executive Manager for Monitoring Control and Surveillance Mr. Noan Pakop told the participants that this training was very essential for the inspectors to understand the EU Regulations, PNG Standards and Inspection Systems for fish and fishery products, and to effectively implement it in Papua New Guinea.

“Globally compliance to food safety requirement is a must to penetrate any markets”, Mr. Pakop said. He said that for PNG to enter European Union (EU) market we have no choice but to implement the EU Regulations and PNG Standards harmoniously to address public health concerns through the internationally recognized Food Safety Management Systems requirements. “This is important for PNG in order to maintain market access into EU, which is a tax free market and fetches a high price for our premium canned tuna and frozen loins”, Mr Pakop said.

Wewak Fish Project to start soon

The Wewak Fish Market and Jetty Construction is expected to kick start late this year or early January 2009. Acting Managing Director of National Fisheries Authority Mr. Sylvester Pokajam, Japanese International Co-operation Agency (JICA) team leader Mr. Ichiro Mimura and Aid Policy and Coordination Director of the Department of the National Planning and Monitoring Mr. Mosilayola Kwayaila signed the minutes of discussion on the Basic Design Study stage.

“We really want the project to kick start this year and this is our commitment”, Mr Pokajam said this during the signing of the minutes in March this year.

Mr. Pokajam said NFA would continue to work closely with the JICA team and East Sepik Provincial Government to ensure the project’s success. Mr. Pokajam said this is an important fisheries project and NFA has met all the cost incurred as an agent of the state in relation to the formulation and planning process of this project.

He thanked the Government of Japan and the JICA Basic Design Study team for taking this important project into PNG. Simultaneously Mr Pokajam thanked the Department of National Planning and Monitoring for its important support given to NFA in facilitating this project.

Mr. Ichiro Mimura thanked NFA for the wonderful cooperation in fulfilling the development of the project. Mr. Mimura thanked the government of PNG and also NFA for the continuous support. Mr. Mosilayola Kwayaila also thanked the government of Japan for their continuous support in PNG government’s development initiatives. He however, said this project would not only benefit the entrepreneurs but also the surrounding communities of East Sepik and the fish vendors as well.

He however said land issue is a big obstacle that they encountered and they will ensure that this project will smoothly progress further with the people of East Sepik. He said land issue will not halt the development of the project, and he assured JICA of this.

OFCF Projects Transferred to NFA

Overseas Fishery Corporation Foundation (OFCF) has officially signed the necessary documents for transferring OFC projects that comes under the umbrella of OFCF to the National Fisheries Authority (NFA). This was officially signed by the Acting Managing Director Mr. Sylvester Pokajam and Fisheries Technical Expert from OFCF Mr. Keiichi Sato on the 14th February this year. Under this signing two projects will be implemented by NFA for 2007 /2008 financial year which include; supplying and installation of the engine simulator at the National Fisheries College in Kavieng and Supply and installation of ice making machine at Kokopo in East New Britain Province.

The next projects to be implemented by NFA under OFCF projects include; construction of the National Fisheries College (NFC) Engineering Training workshop, Supply and Installation of Ice Making Machine for Tufi in Oro Province , Business Operation Assistance to Madang Fishermen Association, Business Training to the operation of Fish Market in Kokopo, East New Britain Province. These projects are expected to will be implemented in the 2008/2009 financial year which will be started in April this year.

OFCF was established in 1973 with the intention of joint purpose of facilitating the Overseas Fishery Cooperation Projects, implemented by Japanese Fishery Companies or Organizations, as well as promoting mutual understanding between coastal countries. PNG become the recipients to OFCF after the Access Agreement was signed in late 2006.

Fishermen to benefit from Cold Storage Facility

Small-scale fishermen from Morobe Province will be able to benefit from the Cold Storage Facility and Fish Processing Plant. Minister for Fisheries Ben Semri made this remark during the official handover of the project. Minister for Fisheries Ben Semri made this remark during the opening and handover of the facility. The event occurred at the Malahang Industrial Centre, Lae Morobe Province on the 16th January this year. This is a K10 million project that was funded by People’s Republic of China.

He said the focus of the proposed facility is to support the small-medium fisheries entrepreneurship, whether they are 100% locally owned enterprises or joint venture enterprises of foreign and local.

Minister Semri said the recent introduction and promotion of fishing cooperatives in the provinces supported by Fisheries Credit Scheme will also support and supply tuna to this plant. He also stressed that with the establishment of such facility, small local groups must be supported and natured by commercial viable private sector partners.

He said that once this facility is fully utilized will also play an important role in the development of skilled human resources in the seafood processing, value-adding and quality handling which will in the long term keep these skilled people contribute to the development of the fisheries sector. “This is the type of development needed to sustain and further enhance and continue the government’s strategy for export driven economy recovery and growth”, Mr. Semri said.

The government is aggressively pursing onshore investments and also mindful of the need to an optimum balance between development and fisheries management so that the fisheries resources are sustainable in the long term. Mr. Semri said the government through National Fisheries Authority is undertaking significant conservation measures within the corridors of our Economic Exclusive Zone to ensure that the tuna stocks remain at a sustainable level.

Minister Semri thanked the Chinese government for funding the project. He said the fishing relations between PNG and China is young. He said this relationship has been created with the objective of developing the tuna fisheries of PNG and formalizing fishing operation.

NFA Assists New Ireland Fisheries with Vehicle

The National Fisheries Authority (NFA) is continually assisting provincial fisheries offices with necessary office equipment, office renovation and vehicles to enable them perform their tasks effectively.

NFA came to the aid of New Ireland Provincial Fisheries Office a week before Christmas day (2007) and handed over a double cab four wheel drive vehicle to be used by the New Ireland Provincial Fisheries Advisor, Mr Saterek Taput and his officers.

Ms Welete Wararu, NFA’s Executive Manager for Provincial and Industry Liaison Division, handed the vehicle to the Provincial Administrator, Mr Robinson Sirimbat at the National Fisheries College in Kavieng.

At the small handover ceremony, Ms Wararu said that the New Ireland Provincial Fisheries office is one of the 14 maritime offices that has benefited most from such assistance due to the influx of marine research activities into the province, particularly the Nango Island Research facility. She said also that due to the fact that the National Fisheries College is in Kavieng, assistance from ADB and AusAID to renovate and revamp College facilities has been enormous since 2000.

“I hope you will use the vehicle properly which will assist you achieve your programs and goals and NFA delegated functions in your province.” Ms Wararu said.

Provincial Administration, Mr Sirimbat upon receiving the vehicle said he is very appreciative of the Christmas present to his fisheries office and that he will make sure the vehicle is put to good and proper use.

NFA pays K22 million to Government

The National Fisheries Authority has paid K22 million as dividend payment to the government for 2007. Acting Chairman of National Fisheries Board Mr. Tau Vali and Mr. Pokajam presented the cheque to the Finance and Treasury Minister Honourable Patrick Pruaitch on Wednesday 19th, 2007.

Mr. Vali said that over the years people have created an impression that NFA is making a lot of money from the fisheries sector in particular from the tuna fishery. “This is simply not true because NFA only charges six percent on the value of tuna caught by distant water fishing nation’s vessels within PNG waters”, He said.

Mr. Vali said NFA is working with other PNA member countries to develop appropriate strategies and approaches to maximize returns from our tuna resources. This include: increase the value of fishing day under the Vessel Day Scheme which has been in full implementation since December 2007, facilitate more onshore investments within the PNA through development of industrial marine parks or processing zones and encourage ownership of vessels by national, corporations or governments of PNA.

PNG as a bigger country among the PNA has argued strongly in the recent Annual Session of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Tuna Commission for the commission to allow or direct Chinese Taipei to release purse seine vessels, one for Tuvalu and the two for Marshall Islands which were constructed two years ago but were not were not allowed to export to those two countries.

Construction of Marine Research Facility to Commence

The multimillion kina Marine Research Institute for Papua New Guinea will kick start its initial construction phase early January 2008. This was the message from the Acting Managing Director of the National Fisheries Authority Mr. Sylvester Pokajam when signing the Memorandum of Agreement with Yatala Construction Ltd Manger Mr. Darly Haste.

Mr. Pokajam said NFA has funded this facility at the cost of more than K3 million to set this marine research facility in Nago Island in Kavieng. This facility will breed the depleted marine resources especially beche-de-mer and other marine species. He further emphasized that this facility will become the hatchery and the nursery area for the local people to benefit. “In the long run, the idea is to make the institution sustainable. The institution would deliver fisheries programs to enhance fishery workers skills and research of marine products”, Mr. Pokajam said.

Coral Triangle Initiative (CTI) on Coral Reefs, Fisheries and Food Security

Early this month the first Senior Officials Meeting (SOM 1) of the Coral Triangle Initiative (CTI) was held in Bali Indonesia on the 6-7 December 2007.

The SOM 1 was attended by senior officials from the Coral Triangle affected countries including the host, Republic of Indonesia, Solomon Islands, Malaysia, Philippines, Papua New Guinea and Timor-Leste. Other stakeholders including the NGOs and donor agencies were also presented.

The PNG delegation represented by Mr. Leban Gisawa, Manager Inshore fisheries, NFA, Mr. James Sabi Manager Biodiversity, Department of Environment & Conservations (DEC) and Mr. Justin Ilakini, Industry Liaison Officer, NFA, presented a paper on “Current and future priorities for action to address marine and coastal biological resources”.

The CTI SOM 1 was the first meeting of countries and other stakeholders to advance the Coral Triangle Initiative on Coral Reefs, Fisheries and Food Security (CTI). It builds on the APEC Summit in September 2007, at which 21 heads of state from across Asia Pacific welcomed the Coral Triangle Initiative - a new multilateral partnership to help safeguard these marine and coastal resources for this and future generations. The Coral Triangle Initiative on Coral Reefs, Fisheries, and Food Security aims to bring together six (6) governments in a multilateral partnership to conserve the extraordinary marine life in the region that covers all or parts of the exclusive economic zones of Indonesia (Central and Eastern), Timor-Leste, the Philippine, Malaysia (part of Borneo), Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands.

Given the possible linkages between CTI and climate change, it was only timely that the first SOM was held in conjunction with the UN Climate Change Conference in Bali, as this could be taken as a comprehensive approach to climate change, specifically its future impacts of climate change on marine and coastal natural resources.

2007 Bi-annual Provincial Fisheries Conference

In November from the 26th – 29th, 2007 the National Fisheries Authority hosted the bi-annual Provincial Fisheries Conference at the Melanesian Hotel in Lae. This significant conference saw the attendance of all maritime provincial fisheries officers.

The theme of the conference was “Improving Partnership In Sustainable Fisheries” with the aim of the conference focused on carefully examining the various issues affecting the provinces and to also examine the best possible development options that both parties (the National Fisheries Authority and the Maritime Provincial Governments) can pursue to achieve the desired results in the provinces.

The Acting Managing Director in his opening speech emphasized to the participants that their participation was indeed very important in this aspect and thus encouraged the participants to make the most of the opportunity to exchange productive and constructive views during the conference. In concluding his speech the Acting Managing Director, took the opportunity to thank all Provincial Fisheries Advisors, Deputy Provincial Administrators and senior officers who accompanied their respective fisheries advisors to this significant conference. He further reiterated that the outcome of the meeting will certainly go a long way in the management and development of the fisheries sector in the respective Maritime Provinces.

Wewak Fishery Project to Start Soon

Papua New Guinea Government and Japanese International Corporation Agency (JICA) signed for the proposed Wewak Fish Market and Jetty Development Project agreement which would begin in 2008. Representatives from the government and the JICA team signed the document in November 2007.

Deputy Secretary for Department of National Planning and Monitoring, Ms Ulato Avei, Mr. Ichiro Mimura Team Leader of the JICA Basic Design Study and Acting Managing Director of National Fisheries Authority Mr. Sylvester Pokajam signed the document in Port Moresby.

Mr. Pokajam said NFA would continue to work closely with the JICA team and East Sepik Provincial Government to ensure the project’s success. Mr. Pokajam said as an important fisheries project NFA has met all the cost incurred in relation to the formulation and planning process of this project.

Mr. Pokajam thanked the Government of Japan and the JICA Basic Design Study team for taking this important project into PNG. Simultaneously he thanked the Department of National Planning and Monitoring for its important support given to NFA in facilitating this project.

The Director of Aid Policy and Coordination of the Department of National Planning and Monitoring, Mr. Mosilayola Kwayaila also thanked the government of Japan for their continuous support in PNG government’s development initiatives. He however said this project would not only benefit the entrepreneurs but also the surrounding communities of East Sepik and the fish vendors as well.

NFA Signs 2007-2008 Bilateral Access Agreement

On behalf of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea, the National Fisheries Authority has signed the 2007-2008 bilateral access agreement between PNG and Japan Far Seas Purse Seine Fishing Association, China Fisheries Association, Korea Deep Sea Fisheries Association, Frabelle Fishing Corporation, Trans Pacific Journey, FA FU and Fong Seong.

Acting Managing Director of the National Fisheries Authority, Mr. Sylvester Pokajam said during the official opening of the access negotiation that PNG would continue to maintain the good relationship with her partners to successfully utilize the Vessels Day Scheme (VDS).

He said under the access arrangement, PNG has to ensure the implementation of the VDS. Similarly the Parties to the Nauru Agreement (PNA) member countries especially the Western Central Pacific Purse Seine fishery will also implement the VDS as of December 2007. The VDS is part of the management tool for the purse seine fishery which will be implemented a part of the Western Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) conservation and management measure for bigeye and yellowfin tuna in the Western Central Pacific Ocean.

The VDS will ensure that the total numbers of days for the purse seine fishing vessels by the PNA member countries are controlled to maintain the sustainability of the tuna species around the Western Central Pacific Ocean. The access negotiation formula remains as usual formula, where catch x price x 6% rate of returns with a limited allocation of days for each partner. The National Fisheries Authority is taking the lead to implement this measure and has taken the initiative to cater for the VDS and upgrading of its Vessel Monitoring System (VMS).

New prawn fishing company signs agreement to assist the locals with fishing facilities

The newly established fishing company, Coco Enterprise Limited signed an agreement with the local fishermen from; Gorehu, Manumanu, Hisiu, Iare, Delena and Kairuku Islands of Central Province to fish for prawns. This agreement was signed on the 20th November 2007.

General Manager of Coco Enterprise Limited Mr. Wu Fu Tsai said the objective of the project agreement is to provide the villagers with banana boats and dinghies with engines and prawn fishing nets and other necessary accessories so that people may improve their lifestyles especially to earn incomes. He said Coco Enterprise Ltd has recently established and is 100% nationally owned. Mr. Tsai said that he would like to interact with the local people to fish for prawns, lobsters and other fisheries resources and sell them to the company.

“This is an opportunity for the people of Central Province to have a relationship with the company and sell their prawns resources to the company”, Mr. Tsai said. He said that villages of Kairuku Island, Central Province have abundant prawn resources but they don’t have the market for their resources. Mr. Tsai said this is the turning point for the people of Central Province to improve their lifestyle through Coco Enterprise Ltd.

Mr. Tsai said that Coco Enterprise will also train the villagers to maintain the banana boats and their engines and also teach them how to mend the prawn fishing nets. He however said the only responsibility lies with the fishermen is to maintain the fuel cost.

The long term aim of this project is to develop and consolidate a commercial relationship based on the mutual interest to harvest and market the prawns resources and share the benefits. According to Mr. Tsai the company has already signed an agreement with the villagers to take up the challenge.

China International Fisheries and Seafood Exposition Industry Participation

A team of Papua New Guinea fishing and fish processing companies recently participated in the 12th China International Fisheries and Seafood Exposition in Dalian, People’s Republic of China from the 06th - 08th of November 2007.

The exposition was an international event with people from all levels of global seafood attending. These included involvement in all kinds of fisheries activities, from fishing, farming (aquaculture), processing and packaging. The event was Asia’s largest fisheries seafood and aquaculture show supported by the Ministry of Agriculture, P. R. China, the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade and the Dalian Municipal Government.

Accompanied by Officers from the National Fisheries Authority, the companies participated were those dealing mainly in the dried products sector (BDM, Trochus Shell, Sharkfin & e.t.c), the lobster sector and the general fishery (lobster, lobster, fish fillets, dry products) sector respectively.

Papua New Guinea’s participation was aimed at exposing the industry to an international market with vast diversification of product developments in value adding and packaging. It is anticipated that the industries will be able to return and invest in value adding and packaging developments to maximize returns on their current export market.

Thus far the National Fisheries Authority has facilitated and organized participation of PNG’s Export industries to seven expositions particularly Europe, United States of America, Japan and the current expo participation in China.

NFA signs MOA with NAQIA

The National Fisheries Authority (NFA) signed Memorandum Of Agreement (MOA) between the National Agriculture Quarantine and Inspection Authority (NAQIA) on the 24th of October 2007. This MOA will enable the function of an accredited Food Testing Laboratory that can provide credible microbiology and chemical testing services for Seafood, and related products that meets the growing needs of Papua New Guinea fishing industry and consistent with the international standards.

According to the MOA NFA is fully committed to ensure that the lab attains its accreditation status. This assistance and commitment in supporting the operations of the lab over the years would include; equipping the lab, area capacity building and system development.

Furthermore NFA would ensure that all tests undertaken by NAQIA for seafood exporters would be in accordance with international standards and testing parameter for fish and fishery products and water testing would be in accordance with the fish quality control (export) standards. Acting Managing Director for National Fisheries Authority Mr. Sylvester Pokajam said that this MOA has brought the two organizations much closer in understanding and respect for each other and simultaneously serving the needs and fulfill the exceptions of our clients.

Fisheries Minister Praises Tuna Forum Sponsors

The Minister for Fisheries Hon Ben Semri praised the sponsors of the Pacific tuna Forum in the following categories; Gold, Silver and Bronze during a cocktail function at Holiday Inn Hotel in Port Moresby. He thanked the business houses for the comprehensive assistance that eventually boosted the success of the Regional Tuna forum held in Papua New Guinea.

In recognition of their support toward the conference the National Fisheries Authority presented the gifts of appreciation to the sponsors. During the presentation, Mr. Semri said that the participants need to corporate to promote the development of the tuna industry in the WCP Region. Such cooperation between the Pacific Islands countries, the Distant Water Fishing nation’s fleets and processors, will set the basis for greater level of understanding when addressing such tuna fishery management issues.

PNG Welcomes Foreign Investment

Papua New Guinea would allow foreign investments in tuna sector. Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare made this remark during the opening of the Pacific Tuna Forum on the 12th of September 2007 at Crowne Plaza in Port Moresby. Sir Michael said that PNG has a competitive advantage of being located at the best fishing ground in the world. He said his government would now push for additional tuna processing plants to add on to the three existing canneries over the next few years.

Sir Michael said PNG has taken the steps to support the setting up of onshore tuna processing plants by offering appropriate level of incentives to the investors. “While the cost of operation in PNG is still higher than in Asia, we do have competitive advantage of being located right at the best fishing ground in the world”, Sir Michael said. He further elaborated that while PNG having established the three tuna processing plants, PNG should have additional plants over the next few years so as to increase the total processing capacity.

Meanwhile Acting Managing Director for National Fisheries Authority Mr. Sylvester Pokajam said the ownership of pump-boats are still reserved for PNG but in this fishery, PNG also recognize the need for foreign expertise in processing and marketing of the catches for export.

The National Fisheries Authority in consultation with other government bodies would develop an approved package of incentives and remissions for the investors in the fisheries sector. Mr. Pokajam said that PNG especially NFA is committed to both the sustainable management of the tuna resources and the development of a viable fishing industries. “We have invested in fisheries research over the years to better manage the tuna fishery”, Mr. Pokajam said.

He said the recent tuna tagging research program in conjunction with the Secretariat of the Pacific Community was part of tuna management insensitive. “The tagging research program was for the tuna stock assessment analysis including monitoring the movement, growth and mortality rate”, Mr. Pokajam said. He said the information may also be used to estimate the amount of tuna that is available for exploitation in PNG waters.

Marine Research Facility goes up in Kavieng

A marine research and mariculture facility will be built on Nago Island in Kavieng soon. This is a multimillion kina scientific research establishment.

Once this facility is completed it would be referred to as Institute for Sustainable Marine Resources and restocking depleted fish stocks and other marine export products such as beche-de-mer. This facility will be the first of its type in PNG and will benefit all the Maritime Provinces through developing and implementing aquaculture programs and marine resources. The NFA Tenders Board has approved and awarded the contract to Yatala Construction

Acting Managing Director for National Fisheries Authority Mr. Sylvester Pokajam said that NFA has done a lot in New Ireland Province in terms of investment. This includes the construction of wharves, the reconstruction of NFC, the seafood plant and the EU project. Mr. Pokajam said this K3.5 million facility plus the development of a tourism facility makes the Nago investment unique for PNG. Meanwhile Member for Kavieng Open Honourable Martin Aini thanked NFA for the investment infrastructures in the province and look forward to its successful implementation.

FFA Director General's Visit to Papua New Guinea

The Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Authority (FFA) Director General Mr. Tanielu Su’a paid his first official visit to Papua New Guinea from the 14th – 15th May 2007. His visit to PNG was part of his familiarization trip to all 16 Forum Fisheries Committee (FFC) member countries (Australia, New Zealand, Samoa, Tonga, Cook Islands, Fiji, Vanuatu, Palau, Federated States of Micronesia, Republic of Marshall Islands, Nauru, Kiribati, Tuvalu, Solomon Islands, PNG and Niue) plus the Territory of Tokelau which is an integral part of New Zealand.

Mr. Su’a’s visit to PNG was mainly to meet with political heads and heads of relevant government agencies to raise and discuss key issues evolving around the role of FFA and how best FFA can serve PNG’s interest. In his address during his visit to the National Fisheries Authority Office in Port Moresby he emphasized the need for collective management and conservation of our common tuna and fisheries marine stock, the need for optimization of benefits through sustainable management and development which can be achieved through better bilateral access arrangements and shore-based investments and thirdly the need to maintain collective ownership and control of the tuna stocks through reaffirming the FFA vision and guiding principles.

Mr. Su’a’s next stop from PNG was Niue.