Food-for-the-Poor (FFP) Jamaica on January 24 handed over ten Yamaha 40HP engines to fishermen under its Fishing Programme.
The presentation, which was made at FFP Jamaica’s head office in Spanish Town, St Catherine, came at the end of another year-long assessment in which fishermen were measured on a wide range of areas surrounding fishing practices.
Speaking at the presentation ceremony, Andre Kong, acting Chief Executive Director at the Fisheries Division in the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, had high praises for the programme.
What I have found to be most admirable about this programme is that Food-for-the-Poor does not only give the fishermen equipment, but maintains a longstanding relationship with these fishermen, said Kong.
The programme ensures that the equipment is maintained and that the fishermen practice sustainable fishing methods. I wish more organisations would follow your example.
Director of Fisheries at FFP Jamaica, Nakhle Hado, also sees the programme as a big success.
Our goal is to do more than just to give equipment, but we want the fishermen to make a livelihood as well as give back to their community. We do daily visits. We ensure the fishermen are educated. We teach them the importance of following the laws and regulations. They are very grateful because they see the benefits, Hado said.
With growing concerns about sustainability of the local fishing industry, including problems of over fishing and illegal fishing practices, the FFP Fishing Programme is seeking to provide assistance for a long-term impact.
2013 Jamaica Observer