The Minister for Fisheries Semi Koroilavesau yesterday officially launched the first ever gazetted marine reserve, the Kiuva “Koula-Mai-Wai” in Kiuva Village, Tailevu.

Koula-Mai-Wai (gold from the sea) reserve covers approximately 7.285 square kilometres.

In doing so, Mr Koroilavesau called on villagers of Kiuva, Tailevu, to be role models for the whole country in the upholding, safeguarding and conservation of their God-given marine resources.

He said the reserve is a fully-protected permanent no-take area, meaning that there shall be no fishing allowed within the designated boundaries.

He said Government recognised the importance of all marine and coastal ecosystems through its intimate cultural and traditional links to the sea.

“Fiji is a leader in addressing the unique marine and coastal challenges that beset other Small Island Developing States.

“We have shown that through our community-based efforts we can strengthen national resilience and achieve our own Sustainable Development Goals,” he said.

“The ocean and the sea around us have always been looked upon to provide a variety of goods and services, which are inherently linked to economic growth and social development,” Mr Koroilavesau.

Edited by Epineri Vula

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