Following a distribution of fishing gear and equipment to fishermen's associations in the Grand'Anse department, the Ministry of Agriculture (MARNDR), through the Program to Support Agricultural and Fisheries Productivity and Improve Rural Market Access Infrastructure (PAPAIR), which receives funding notably from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB)—carried out another distribution of gear and equipment to several fishermen's organizations in the South department. These included groups from the communes of Chardonnières, Les Anglais, Tiburon, Saint-Louis-du-Sud, Aquin, Les Cayes, and Saint-Jean-du-Sud.

In total, 14 fiberglass boats, 40 15-HP outboard motors, 7 solar-powered freezers, 40 engine repair kits, 80 fishing gear kits, and nearly 200 life jackets were distributed to bolster the equipment inventory of the beneficiary associations. The distribution took place during a ceremony held under the auspices of the Minister of Agriculture, agronomist Marcelin Aubourg.

The new vessels are intended to enable the beneficiary associations to improve their operations at sea and to utilize equipment better suited to the demands of their trade. In addition to this equipment, the MARNDR—through this program funded by the IDB—enabled associations to attend training sessions focused on areas such as the assembly and installation of fish aggregating devices (FADs), offshore navigation and fishing techniques, and equipment management, explained Laurent Merisier, an agronomist and the central coordinator of the fisheries project.

According to Minister Aubourg, providing this equipment ensures that fishers have the appropriate tools to carry out their work under better conditions, increase their production, and better capitalize on the opportunities offered by the sector. The Minister highlighted the economic potential of the fisheries industry. In his view, the prospects for increased income offered by maritime trades are likely to attract new participants—including individuals from other professions who choose to turn to fishing because of the economic opportunities it can generate. Consequently, he believes this activity should no longer be viewed merely as a traditional means of subsistence, but also as an economic sector with significant potential.

The beneficiaries welcomed the receipt of this equipment with satisfaction. However, the provision of this equipment entails significant responsibility for the recipient organizations. The equipment represents an investment that must be safeguarded to ensure long-term results. The central coordination unit of PAPAIR and the DDAS share this concern and also urge the beneficiaries to act responsibly. They hope that this equipment will effectively serve the intended communities and become a genuine driver of economic development.

See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-48490-significant-distribution-of-equipment-to-fishermen-in-grand-anse-haiti.html

HL/ HaitiLibre