Showroom to Benefit Mabe Pearls Farmers
"The project is more than a livelihood opportunity; it is a platform for preserving traditional skills, empowering artisans, and boosting economic activity."
Saturday 21 December 2024 | 15:48
Minister for Fisheries and Forestry Alitia Bainivalu opens the Savusavu Mabe Pearl Oyster and Handicraft showroom in Savusavu on December 13, 2024.
The opening of Savusavu Mabe Pearl Oyster and Handicraft showroom in Cakaudrove is expected to bolster communities that farm Mabe pearls.
The hub for grafting, value-adding, designing, and marketing was officially opened by the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry Alitia Bainivalu in Savusavu last week.
She said the purpose of the showroom was to support and uplift the livelihoods of coastal communities engaged in Mabe pearl farming in Cakaudrove.
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She acknowledged the partnership between the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), the University of Sunshine Coast, the Ministry of Fisheries, and the community based Mabe Pearl farmers in the coastal communities of Vanua Levu.
"Our partnership with ACIAR began in the 1980s with the pioneering work on the Giant Clams at Makogai Island," Ms Bainivalu said.
"This initiative set the foundation for sustainable aquaculture practices in Fiji."
She said building on this success, the ministry expanded its collaboration in 2009 to include projects such as cultivating the freshwater prawn Macro brachium Rosenbergii, demonstrating their shared commitment to fisheries development, sustainable livelihoods, community development, and engagement.
"Over the years, we have continuously worked on projects to foster sustainable practices and enhance community resilience," she said.
"A testament to this commitment is the establishment of the Savusavu Mabe Pearl and Handicraft Showroom in Vanua Levu.
"The project is more than a livelihood opportunity; it is a platform for preserving traditional skills, empowering artisans, and boosting economic activity."
She said the unique handicraft made from Mabe pearls would serve as a source of pride and a pathway for sustainable income generation for our communities.
The facility would also host workshops that rain fisheries officers and community members in transforming raw shells into exquisite handicrafts.
"This initiative represents more than just a partnership; it is a shared vision of community empowerment, environmental stewardship, and sustainable economic development," Ms Bainivalu said.
"By fostering resilience and providing avenues for growth, we enable our coastal communities to thrive while safeguarding our rich cultural and natural heritage."
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