The ATSEA-2 Project, in partnership with the National Fisheries Authority (NFA) and the South Fly District Fisheries of Papua New Guinea (PNG), has successfully established two key committees: the Fore Coast Artisanal Fisheries Management Committee (FAFMC) and the Fore Coast Artisanal Fisheries Management Plan Advisory Committee (FAFMPAC). These committees are essential for promoting sustainable artisanal fisheries management in the Fore Coast region as the ATSEA-2 Project draws to a close. The creation of the FAFMC and FAFMPAC was crucial to establishing a structured framework for implementing the Fore Coast Artisanal Fisheries Management Plan (FAFMP) and its supporting Local-level Government (LLG) by-law.

The inaugural meetings of the FAFMC and FAFMPAC, held on 20 August 2024 in Daru, marked the official establishment of these committees. During these meetings, the ATSEA-2 Project team presented the Terms of Reference (TOR) for each committee, outlining their roles, responsibilities, and operational guidelines. All members of both committees unanimously agreed to the TORs, underscoring their commitment to sustainable fisheries management.

Samson Uku, Deputy President of the Fore Coast Kiwai LLG, expressed his support: “We are pleased that these committees have been established, allowing the LLG to collaborate with community fisheries management committees, local fisheries authorities, and other experts to support the implementation of the management plan and related legislation.”

The FAFMC is responsible for providing policy guidance, monitoring, and overseeing the implementation of the FAFMP and LLG law. It coordinates efforts among the Community Fisheries Management Committees (CFMC) from 14 villages within the LLG’s jurisdiction and includes representatives from these CFMCs, local fisheries officers, and stakeholders from the local fishing industry. The FAFMC oversees the management of artisanal fisheries in line with the FAFMP and LLG law, collaborates with Village Courts to enforce regulations, works with various bodies for technical support, monitors fisheries resources, and manages data collection and reporting.

The FAFMPAC provides technical expertise and strategic guidance to the FAFMC. It comprises senior representatives from different ministries, government agencies, and other stakeholders, including the private sector and civil society organisations, to ensure coordinated implementation of the FAFMP. The committee offers strategic advice on improving the FAFMP and LLG law, facilitates collaboration across different sectors, reviews progress reports, and makes recommendations for improvement. Additionally, the FAFMPAC partners with external organisations to support the management plan.

Together, these committees create a strong foundation for managing artisanal fisheries in the Fore Coast region, ensuring sustainable practices and effective governance. However, the main challenge the committees face is ensuring continuity after the ATSEA-2 Project ends. It is crucial for the South Fly District Fisheries to integrate these activities into their regular operations to maintain momentum. There are currently no upcoming activities planned until the next committee meeting, scheduled for next year.

To continue their work effectively, the committees need ongoing support from local communities and the government. Communities must keep implementing the FAFMP and LLG law, collect relevant data, and submit reports to fisheries officers. The local fisheries office should maintain funding and compile reports for the committees to review and discuss.

Although the committees have not yet reported any early successes, there is strong support from local stakeholders, indicating a positive start and potential for future achievements. The involvement of local communities is crucial, with the FAFMC including representatives from the Community Fisheries Management Committees to ensure collaboration. Some members also represent the fishing industry and other stakeholders, providing a platform to discuss issues and explore opportunities for collaboration.

Looking ahead, the long-term goal is to build the capacity of committee members in the Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries Management (EAFM) and strengthen their role in implementing the FAFMP and related laws. This will help maintain a robust governance framework. Funding for these committees will come from the South Fly District Fisheries and the Fore Coast Kiwai Local-level Government, as outlined in their Annual Work Plans and budgets, to secure the necessary resources.

The establishment of the FAFMC and FAFMPAC highlights the ATSEA-2 Project’s commitment to fostering sustainable fisheries management in the Fore Coast region. As the project concludes, these committees will play a vital role in protecting marine resources and supporting local communities, ensuring a sustainable future for artisanal fisheries.

By Kenneth Yhuanje