LocationsSustainable Livelihood Initiatives - Fisheries in Labasa Market: A Community Effort
October 6, 2024
Participants of the M4C training program for local fish vendors in Fiji's Labasa Market.
Labasa market, is a bustling center of economic activity in the heart of Vanua Levu has long been a cornerstone for local economic initiatives and community interaction. Among the various sectors thriving within the Labasa marketplace, the fisheries sector stands out as a vital component of both the local economy and the community’s way of life.
This article shares the stories of hard-working men and women in the fisheries sector in Labasa market, who attended recent capacity building initiatives to support this sector, and the collective efforts to ensure its sustainable future.
The Importance of Fisheries in Labasa Market
Fisheries play a crucial role in Labasa market, providing a primary source of livelihood for many families and contributing significantly to the local economy. Fresh fish and seafood are not only staples in the diets of the local population but also attract visitors from other regions, boosting trade and commerce. In Labasa market, 53 registered market vendors trade on a daily basis, with their rich knowledge of local marine life, and often offer a diverse array of products, from freshly caught fish to dried and smoked varieties.
Recent Initiatives and Training Programs
Recognizing the importance of this sector, UNDP partnered with Fiji’s Ministry of Fisheries, and the Labasa Market Vendors Association to conduct a comprehensive training program aimed at enhancing the skills and knowledge of local fish vendors. The training, attended by 40 market vendors, focused on sustainable fishing practices, quality control, and effective marketing strategies.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote sustainable fisheries and ensure the long-term viability of the sector. The training aligns with the Ministry of Fisheries’ vision of having the best fisheries in the Pacific Region, and closely collaborating with key partners to sustain, to manage and to protect Fiji’s Fisheries.
Waisea Makulau – Market Vendors Association Vice President
Waisea Makulau, the lead contact person for the Labasa market vendors association, was instrumental in organising and coordinating the participants to attend the two-day fisheries training. “The role of planning, coordination and communicating the logistical arrangement for this two-day training has really boost my confidence,” he said. “It has helped me to be patient despite the challenges I face in organising the market vendors. I am glad that I was able to contribute to the coordination and also communication with the Labasa market vendors, and the trainers.”
Key Topics Covered in the Training
The training program covered a range of important topics, including:
• Sustainable Fishing Practices: Techniques to minimize environmental impact and ensure the long-term health of fish populations.
• Quality Control: Best practices for handling, storing, and displaying fish to maintain freshness and safety.
• Marketing Strategies: Effective ways to market fish products to attract more customers and increase sales.
The participants shared their positive learnings from the two-day training, which will set the foundation for further strengthening the need for more trainings at the community levels to enhance the knowledge and skills of the market vendors.
Asenaca Bale, a fish seller at the Labasa market expressed her excitement to be part of the two-day training. “I really learnt a lot on licensing of my fish business. I also have a boat and I didn’t know that I am expected to get my license done. This training has really helped me to better understand the different license that need to operate my business.”
Adi Tagimau, a market vendor in Labasa for the past three years found the training to be very useful. “This is my first training and I learnt alot. I learned the best practices for handling, storing, and displaying fish to maintain freshness and safety.”
Viliame Samualevu, a fisherman and market vendor for 15 years, also shared his learnings. “I am a fisherman and have been operating my fish stall for the past 15 years and this is the first time I am attending the fisheries training. One of the biggest issues we face is the facilities for selling fish, and this includes having the ice packs for fish storage. Today, I heard the Fisheries Officers mentioning that there the Ministry of Fisheries is working towards installation of two ice machines in Labasa, and this is great news for us fishermen as we will be able to access the ice packs, to help in the fish business sales in Labasa.”
Community and Support Networks
The success of the fisheries sector in Labasa market is heavily reliant on strong community and support networks. Organizations and advocacy groups play a pivotal role in providing resources, support, and training to fish vendors. These networks also help in advocating for policy changes that benefit the fisheries sector and raise awareness about sustainable practices. At the end of the two-day training, the Labasa Market Vendors Association will continue to work closely with the fish market vendors for a sustainable livelihood initiative.
Looking to the Future
As we look to the future, it is essential to continue supporting the fisheries sector in Labasa market through ongoing training, community engagement, and the implementation of sustainable practices. The support that is provided for the fisheries sector will ensure a robust and continued support to contribute to the local economy and community well-being. The fisheries sector in Labasa market is more than just a source of livelihood; it is a vital part of the community’s identity and heritage. Through collective efforts and a commitment to sustainability, we can ensure that this sector thrives for generations to come.
The Markets for Change Project contributes to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the M4C project directly contributes to multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It supports SDG 5 on Gender Equality, SDG 8 on decent work and economic growth, SDG 10 on reducing inequalities, and SDG 11 on sustainable cities and communities. The project ensurees equality and economic empowerment for all, including men, women, youth, people with disabilities, and marginalized minority groups.
The M4C project is implemented by UN Women in partnership with UNDP and with support from the Government of Australia.
For more information, please contact:
Fane Cinavilakeba, M4C Project Associate – fane.cinavilakeba@undp.org and Vilisi Veibataki, M4C Project Manager, UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji | vilisi.veibataki@undp.org | +679 3227701
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