Maldives Fishermen’s Association

http://mfa.org.mv/

Social Media- @maldivesfishermens (Facebook)

MFA was established on April 8, 1993 as an organization aimed to develop the Maldivian fishing industry by educating, providing incentives, facilitating market options, gather and disseminate information about new technologies to the local fishers in Maldives. The Association works alongside fishermen to encourage growth and develop a sustainable fishing industry in Maldives. MFA gives priority to preserve indigenous knowledge, create awareness and understanding about fishery by hosting workshops within the country. Such workshops are designed to educate, help acquire skills, facilitate alternative methods like aqua/marine culture and introduce advancements in fisheries for fishermen.

As part of its advocacy efforts with young people, MFA has set up the Young Fishers Club; a voluntary non-governmental initiative for the school students to promote and develop interest among youngsters in the fields of Fisheries. The aim of the Club is to help create awareness and interest among the school students in different fields of the fisheries sector by developing their skills. MFA also conducts activities like art competitions in schools to further promote awareness about sustainable fishing. MFA believes that since fishing is the main livelihood of the Maldives, with increase in the exploitation of aquatic resources, there needs to be focus on sustainability of the fishery resources.

Mr. Abdulla Shakir, Secretary General, MFA, interacts with school students as part of the Young Fishers Club initiative.

Image credit: MFA

Year of affiliation to ICA: 2015

Contact information: Mr. Abdulla Shakir, abdullashakir@gmail.com Secretary General, MFA.