Maldives Expands Fishing Network with Six New Fish Aggregating Devices

The Ministry of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources has deployed six new fish aggregating devices (FADs) across the Maldives, further expanding the nation's strategic fishing infrastructure over the past week. Three of the new FADs, specifically designed for skipjack tuna fishing, were positioned 16 miles east of Dhaandhoo in Gaafu Alif Atoll, 14 miles south of Gadhdhoo in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, and 15 miles east of Villingili in Seenu Atoll. Additionally, a dedicated FAD for sports and reef fishing was installed 10 miles east of Fuvahmulah in Gnaviyani Atoll. This latest deployment brings the national total to 103 FADs. Minister of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam highlighted the scale of this effort, noting that 44 skipjack tuna FADs were installed in the last year alone, a volume of deployment unmatched by other governments. Addressing the challenges of maintaining these installations, Minister Shiyam announced that the government is prioritizing the replacement of FADs that were damaged or lost due to strong tides and shifting weather patterns. He emphasized that because these devices are critical to the daily livelihoods of local fishermen, the government aims to resolve losses promptly, with missing units scheduled for reinstallation within the month. To combat the recurring issue of devices drifting away, the Ministry is collaborating with the Maldives Food and Drug Authority to modernize FAD designs. This initiative marks a significant departure from the traditional designs that have been used in the Maldives for 40 years, focusing on increased stability and durability against ocean currents. The government intends to complete the comprehensive installation of FADs across the archipelago by February next year, ensuring sustainable and efficient fishing grounds for the local industry.