Embarking on small-scale fisheries value-added product development initiative focusing on souvenir making is one of the key highlights of the workshop convened last Friday on the 7th of November,2025 at the KIFL Ambo office. The workshop was attended by more than fifty participants representing the women's group, youths, local handicraft makers and national artists, and Toamatoa, those with disabilities. This workshop organized through a jointly effort of the Committee set up to progress this key initiative, comprised of Government representatives from MTCIC and TAK, MCIA, MWYSA and the PDD under MFOR. It is an interesting dialogue with great ideas in bringing local handicraft makers to discuss on areas important on how Kiribati could progress to promote the making of quality, locally made souvenirs from the locally sourced marine resources. At the workshop, issues raised including limited fundings on women business entrepreneurship, tools and limited opportunities for market access are commonly raised at the discussions. The initiative is part of the MFOR 100 days priorities, with the next key activities including a national competition on souvenir making to be held next week and the launching of products by end of November this year.

The Ministry sincerely acknowledge the funding support of MFAT Tobwan Waara 3 and the invaluable support of the committee members towards this great initiative.