Qoliqoli Team Registered On Global Listing
The registration certificate was presented by the Commissioner Northern Jovesa Vocea while closing the two-day national workshop on Qoliqoli Cokovata management plan on Friday.
The event was organised by the Department of Environment at Labasa Civic Centre. Mr Vocea assured the committee that Government, through the various agencies present at the workshop, would provide the necessary support.
This is to ensure Fiji’s compliance to the Ramsar Convention also known as the Convention of Wetlands- an international treaty for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands.
Ramsar sites in the Northern division are wetland areas designated to be of international importance.
“I look forward to seeing their commitment being realised and assure the committee that we will do everything possible to support their management role,” Mr Vocea said.
“After all, the Qoliqoli Cokovata is strategically important in responding to a num
ber of commitments which includes the 30 percent commitment in Marine Protected Areas, the Aichi Targets 11 and 12, and the sustainable Development Goals 14 on oceans.
“The Government is therefore grateful to the support of the committee and the district of Macuata, Sasa, Mali, and Dreketi in allowing the Government to fulfil this commitment.”
Turaga Tui Mali Apenisa Bogiso on behalf of the committee received the certificate and thanked the Government for their support.
“This is history for us, especially those living in the islands far from Labasa area and not known by many in the world,” a tearful Mr Bogiso said.
“Thank you for giving us the people of Macuata the recognition and support.
“I would like to urge district reps to let us work together and strengthen our relationship to save the environment.”
Considered the heart of the Great Sea Reef (GSF), Qoliqoli Cokovata covers a land area of approximately 2064 kilometre squared, with a total marine area or Qoliqoli (fishing ground) of 134,900 hectares.
Feedback: shratikan@fijisun.com.fj
