Draft plan for National Ecosystem-Based Fisheries Management finalized at recent meeting

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy (MOAFBGE), in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), successfully organized a National Stakeholder Validation Workshop on Tuesday, May 14, 2025. It was held at the Prevost Cinemall Conference Facility in Roseau.

An FAO statement described the event as marking a significant step forward in the completion of Dominica’s inaugural Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries Management (EAFM) plan, titled “Securing Resilient Coastal Futures through the Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries Management.”

The strategy aims to foster sustainable fishing practices, safeguard marine environments, and bolster the resilience of coastal communities.

The opening segment was led by Mr. Derrick Theophile, Acting Chief Fisheries Officer, who welcomed participants and underscored the importance of inclusive discussions in shaping the country’s marine policies.

Representing the Government of Dominica, Permanent Secretary Mr. Ryan Anselm emphasized the importance of the EAFM Strategy in advancing sustainable development goals: “This plan represents a turning point in how we view and manage our marine ecosystems. It not only supports sustainable fishing, but also reinforces food security, coastal protection, and blue economic development,” Mr. Anselm affirmed.

Mrs. Shan Oliver-Julien, FAO Project Coordinator from the FAO Subregional Office for the Caribbean, reaffirmed FAO’s ongoing support for Dominica’s fisheries sector through technical assistance and regional capacity-building initiatives.

“The FAO is proud to support Dominica in adopting this bold and necessary shift toward an ecosystem-based approach. This model is vital for ensuring sustainability, equity, and resilience across the region,” Mrs. Oliver-Julien stated.

Honourable Julian Defoe, Minister of State within the Ministry responsible for Fisheries and the Blue Economy delivered the keynote address.

“The EAFM Strategy places people and ecosystems at the core of our policies,” Minister Defoe noted. “It reflects our government’s dedication to sustainable livelihoods and the preservation of our marine resources for both present and future generations.”

A technical presentation was given by Dr. Camille David, a marine expert and facilitator of the session, who explained the EAFM methodology, outlined the workshop’s objectives, and proposed management strategies for four key Fisheries Management Units (FMUs): Soufriere-Scotts Head, Mero, Portsmouth, and the Sperm Whale Reserve. These FMUs encompass a variety of ecological and socio-economic features.

Using the Soufriere-Scotts Head area as a case study, participants—including fishers, conservationists, tourism operators, and local officials—offered feedback on draft management plans tailored to each site.

According to the FAO release, the EAFM Strategy aims to strengthen the Fisheries Division’s capacity to implement science-based policies and regulatory frameworks while supporting national efforts in food security, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience.

The organization reports that the workshop concluded with a summary of upcoming steps, including refining the draft plan and preparing for formal national approval. A phased plan for implementation will be developed subsequently.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy, along with FAO, sincerely thanks all stakeholders, partners, and community members who contributed to the successful validation of this important national initiative.

The final version of the plan is anticipated to be adopted in the near future, revealed the FAO.