Deputy Minister of Fisheries and Blue Economy Welcomes High-Profile Delegation to Kismayo

The Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy of Jubaland, Hon. Mohamed Omar Bunu, had the pleasure of welcoming a distinguished delegation from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Led by representatives from the Federal Ministry of Fisheries and blue economy of Somalia.

The delegation’s visit marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to strengthen fisheries management, promote sustainable practices, and enhance food security in Jubaland. Their primary objective was to monitor and evaluate the progress made under the Somali Crisis and Recovery Project ( SRP), which is aimed at building resilience and boosting the local fisheries sector.

The visit began with a briefing session at the Ministry’s Extension Office in Alanley, where Hon. Bunu and the delegation engaged in fruitful discussions on the successes and challenges faced during the project implementation. The attendees emphasized the importance of cooperation between federal and regional entities, as well as the critical role of international partners like FAO in supporting local communities through sustainable initiatives.

Following the meeting, the delegation visited Kismayo’s fish market, one of the vital hubs for the city’s economy. They observed the operations firsthand, from the handling of fresh seafood to the market’s infrastructure, gaining insight into how the project has positively impacted local fishermen and traders. This visit also provided an opportunity for the visitors to interact with the fishers, hear their experiences, and discuss potential areas of improvement.

The SCRP project has been instrumental in not only improving the livelihoods of coastal communities but also ensuring that the region’s marine resources are utilized sustainably. The partnership between the Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy of Jubaland and FAO has brought new opportunities for training, equipment, and infrastructure development, positioning Kismayo as a model for fisheries management in Somalia.

Hon. Bunu expressed his appreciation for the visit, highlighting the importance of continued collaboration to achieve long-term food security and economic growth for Jubaland. “Together, we are building a future where our marine resources can sustainably support our communities and the wider economy,” he noted.

The delegation’s visit underscores the collective commitment of national, regional, and international partners to advance Somalia’s fisheries sector, ensuring that its rich marine biodiversity benefits generations to come.