JICA and CRFM Host Regional Workshop in Saint Lucia

ON March 8th 2019, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Saint Lucia office and the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM) are set to host a workshop to review the state of coastal fisheries resource management in six OECS countries (Antigua & Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St, Kitts & Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent & the Grenadines), to share Japanese experience and international perspective and discuss the next project concept, based on the project proposal, ‘The Project for Promotion of Coastal Fisheries Resources Management in the Caribbean’ prepared by CRFM and the six OECS countries.

Considering that the CARIFICO1 (Caribbean Fisheries Co-Management) project, of which the primary goal was to promote the fisheries resource management in the Caribbean region, has indeed been successful in helping the pilot countries increase their knowledge and build capacity in their fisheries, co-management approaches and practices, this workshop comes at an ideal time, since the project will be ending later this year.

During the workshop, emphasis will be placed on the concept of integrated coastal management and the designation of Marine Protected Areas to safeguard natural and cultural resources.

The general outcome of the workshop is expected to be the assisting of execution of base line surveys regarding coastal marine resource management and conservation in the region and the organising of a SATOUMI workshop where the above findings will be presented by each country. The concept of SATOUMI will be introduced to all countries involved. In Japanese, “Sato” stands for a village where people live and “Umi”, means ocean. Sato-umi seeks to promote the harmonious co-existence between humans and nature. It is expected that Japan’s experience in using Sato-umi will help participating countries in their discussions as they plan for Phase Two of the CARIFICO project.