News

News updates from the Kiribati Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources.

Solar Upgrade and Facility Improvements Completed in Nonouti

Two officers from Kiribati Green Energy Solutions and the Coastal Fisheries Division recently returned from Nonouti after spending two weeks on the island, from 9th to 23rd March 2026. The main aim of their visit was to install a new solar system and carry out minor upgrades. This included installing new freshwater and seawater pumps, repairing shade cloths, plastering and painting the raceways, and cleaning around the compound. These repairs and upgrades were necessary to prepare the Nonouti Mini Hatchery for the upcoming major clam spawning training, scheduled to begin after the team's return to Tarawa. We want to thank the Nonouti Island Council for their support, especially the village representatives who assisted the team in completing their mission. Additionally, we extend our special appreciation to the European Union for its support and funding for this trip.

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Kiribati Engages in Global Ocean Governance at BBNJ PrepCom 3

The third session of the BBNJ Preparatory Commission (PrepCom 3) was convened today, 24 March to the 2nd of April, 2026, at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. The Kiribati delegation is led by Charge d’affaires ad interim Josephine Moote, joined by Ms. Kabure Yeeting from the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources and Ms. Kaaroti Henry from the Ministry of Environment, Lands, and Agricultural Development. Key issues on the table for deliberations include: πŸ”Ή Rules of Procedure for the COP and subsidiary bodies πŸ”Ή Financial arrangements πŸ”Ή Clearing-House Mechanism πŸ”Ή Hosting proposals for the BBNJ Secretariat πŸ”Ή Recommendations for COP 1 Over the weekend, we gathered with our Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS) family on Saturday, followed by the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) on Sunday, to align ahead of these crucial talks. Kiribati's priorities are centered on inclusive governance, accessible and sustainable financing, and a Clearing-House Mechanism that delivers real capacity-building for small island nations. The goal of this session is to prepare recommendations for the first COP, tentatively set for early 2027. Kam bati n raba to the Office of the Pacific Ocean Commissioner (OPOC) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) GEF 8 BBNJ Support Project, for making our participation possible.Β 

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Technical Skills Transfer Training in Manila

A technical skills transfer and capacity development training, hosted by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and supported by the National Fisheries Development Center (NFDC), was convened from 13th to 21st March in Manila, Philippines. The training provided a great platform for both MFOR and BFAR staff to exchange knowledge and technical skills in fish deboning, value-addition and food safety. Practical sessions on deboning and value-addition were facilitated by the Fisheries Post-Harvest Technology Division, led by OIC Mrs. Cherry E. Romero, while food safety training was delivered by KSVD Director Mrs. Tereere Tioti. The training was marked as an initial exchange of technical skills, strengthening collaboration and networking between MFOR and BFAR. Additionally, the knowledge and skills gained will enable participants to train local communities in producing value-added marine products, contributing to improve livelihoods, enhanced food security, food safety, and increased income generation. The Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources conveys sincere appreciation to BFAR and NFDC for their exceptional support, warm hospitality, and commitment in hosting and delivering the training. Appreciation is also extended to PROP for their financial support.

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LIMS Development Retreat Advances Laboratory Efficiency

A two-day retreat held from 20–21 March 2026 brought together technical staff from the Digital Transformation Office (MICT) and the Seafood Toxicology Laboratory (MFOR) to guide the development and initial implementation of the Division’s Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
The retreat provided a valuable platform for constructive planning and in-depth discussions, which are expected to accelerate progress on the system. Once fully operational, the LIMS will enable the division to efficiently manage applications, laboratory testing processes, records, data storage and archiving within a secure and well-controlled environment.
The Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources (MFOR) extends its sincere appreciation to the World Bank, through the Pacific Regional Oceanscape Program (PROP), for its continued support to the Seafood Toxicology Laboratory Division (STLD) team.
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