Frank Taufa conducting compliance training in Haatafu village, Tongatapu Tonga.
[4 November 2024: Tongatapu, Tonga] – In 2020, Frank Taufa embarked on a transformative journey by undertaking the Certificate IV in Coastal Fisheries and Aquaculture Compliance training programme, a scholarship supported by the European Union and the Government of Sweden through the USP component of the Pacific-European Union Marine Partnership (PEUMP) programme. At that time, Frank was a Senior Fisheries Assistant with the Ministry of Fisheries in Tonga, diligently working to support sustainable fishing practices within his community.
The training programme was an intensive and comprehensive course designed to equip participants with advanced knowledge and skills in coastal fisheries management and aquaculture compliance. For Frank, this was a golden opportunity to enhance his professional capabilities and contribute more effectively to the conservation of marine resources in Tonga.
Over the months of rigorous training, Frank delved into various aspects of fisheries compliance, learning about the latest regulations, enforcement techniques, and sustainable aquaculture practices. He also developed a keen understanding of the socio-economic importance of fisheries to the local communities and the critical need for effective management to ensure long-term sustainability.
The impact of the training was profound. In 2023, Frank’s dedication and newly acquired expertise were recognized when he was promoted to the position of Grade 2 Technical Officer in the Compliance Division of the Ministry of Fisheries. Frank proudly attributed this career advancement to the knowledge and skills he gained through the certificate training programme, which had empowered him to take on more significant responsibilities and lead with confidence.
In his new role, Frank’s influence expanded significantly. He became a key figure in training fisheries officers stationed across Tonga’s outer islands, including ‘Eua, Ha’apai, Vava’u, and Tongatapu. His training sessions emphasized the importance of compliance with fisheries regulations, sustainable fishing practices, and the protection of marine ecosystems. Through his efforts, many officers were better prepared to enforce regulations and educate their local communities.
Moreover, Frank played a crucial role in raising awareness about fisheries regulations among community members. Each year, before the seasonal ban period for mullets, Frank and his team visited various communities to conduct awareness sessions. These sessions were vital in ensuring that the local fishermen understood the reasons behind the bans and complied with them to protect the fish populations during their breeding seasons.
Frank’s contributions did not stop there. He also became an integral member of the consultation group tasked with developing new policies around catch size limits. This group, consisting of various stakeholders, worked collaboratively to formulate regulations that would help maintain healthy fish stocks and support sustainable fisheries management. Frank’s practical insights and field experience were invaluable in shaping policies that were both effective and feasible for local fishermen to implement.
Frank Taufa’s journey from a Senior Fisheries Assistant to a Grade 2 Technical Officer is a testament to the transformative power of education and professional development. Through the Certificate in Coastal Fisheries and Aquaculture Compliance training programme, he not only advanced his own career but also made significant contributions to the sustainable management of Tonga’s fisheries, ensuring that these vital resources would be available for future generations.
USP is one of four key implementing partners of the EUR 45million PEUMP Programme, which aims to promote sustainable management and sound ocean governance for food security and economic growth while addressing climate change resilience and conservation of marine biodiversity. It follows a comprehensive approach, integrating issues related to ocean fisheries, coastal fisheries, community development, marine conservation and capacity building under one single regional action. The PEUMP programme is funded by the European Union and the Government of Sweden; and housed within the Institute of Marine Resources within the School of Agriculture, Geography, Environment, Ocean and Natural Sciences (SAGEONS) of USP.
Media contact:
Lore Croker, USP Communications Officer, lore.croker@usp.ac.fj
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