Seasonal Ban on Kawakawa and Donu: Protecting Fiji’s Vital Marine Resources – June – September EVERY YEAR

Suva, Fiji – June 3, 2024: A seasonal ban by Fiji’s Ministry of Fisheries on fishing for Kawakawa and Donu, two highly valued grouper species, has commenced on June 1st and will run until September 30th.

This initiative is part of a critical management approach aimed at safeguarding these species during their peak breeding season to prevent overfishing and ensure the sustainability of Fiji’s marine ecosystem.

?Breeding Season Protection

The four-month ban aligns with the breeding season of Kawakawa and Donu, which tend to aggregate in groups at specific reef passages across Fiji to spawn. By halting fishing activities during this period, the ban aims to protect the fish when they are most vulnerable, thereby aiding in the replenishment of their populations.

The 4-Month Ban On All Species Of Grouper (Kawakawa) And Coral Trout (Donu)

Fiji’s Ministry of Fisheries

Reef passages where these species aggregate have been identified nationwide, and continuous research by the Ministry of Fisheries is being conducted to monitor breeding behaviors. This research will determine the peak breeding months and the most critical breeding sites, potentially leading to more targeted and effective future conservation measures.

?Importance of Kawakawa and Donu

Kawakawa and Donu are not only integral to the ecological balance of Fiji’s reefs but also hold significant cultural and economic value. They are a crucial food source and a vital income stream for local communities. However, due to predictable breeding patterns, these species are particularly susceptible to overfishing. A recent study highlighted a 70% decline in fish landings over the past 30 years, underscoring the urgent need for protective measures.

The Fiji government has reported that 80% of known breeding sites for these species are either declining or have been wiped out.

?Solution: The Seasonal Ban

The seasonal ban offers a straightforward solution by leveraging the knowledge of breeding seasons. By avoiding the fishing, buying, and selling of Kawakawa and Donu during these critical months, the fish are given a chance to spawn, thereby replenishing their numbers. This initiative is part of the broader 4FJ campaign, which has successfully garnered over 26,000 pledges from Fijians to abstain from consuming these fish during the breeding season.

Since its inception in 2014, the 4FJ campaign has been instrumental in raising awareness and driving community participation in conservation efforts. The campaign’s success led to the government’s legal enforcement of the ban in 2018, and public support has remained strong, with an 84.55% approval rate reported in 2019.

?Community Involvement and Support

For the ban to be effective, widespread community support is essential. Urban communities can contribute by refusing to buy undersized fish and encouraging sustainable fishing practices. This collective effort ensures that more fish reach maturity, enhancing their ability to breed and sustain the fishery.

C Change has been a key partner in supporting the Ministry of Fisheries, engaging sports figures and political leaders to amplify the campaign’s message. Ongoing public education and community discussions, including radio talk shows and online forums, continue to play a vital role in spreading awareness and fostering collaboration.

?FAQs

1. Why focus on Kawakawa and Donu?

These species are highly prized for their taste and market value, making them economically and culturally important. Their predictable breeding aggregations make them particularly vulnerable to overfishing.

2. Why a four-month ban?

The four-month period covers the peak spawning months for these fish, maximizing the effectiveness of the ban while minimizing the impact on fishermen’s livelihoods. Although some fish breed outside this window, the majority are protected within these months.

3. How does the ban affect fishermen’s income?

While the ban restricts fishing activities during the breeding season, it aims to enhance long-term fish stocks, ensuring better catches and sustained incomes for fishermen throughout the rest of the year.

?Spread the Word

To ensure the success of this initiative, continued public engagement and education are crucial. Families, friends, and communities are encouraged to discuss and support the ban, contributing to the broader goal of reviving Fiji’s fishing grounds for future generations.

For more information and resources, visit http://www.4fjmovement.org and participate in discussions on the Qoli Vakamatau Talkback Radio Show on Radio Fiji One.

Together, we can ensure that Kawakawa and Donu thrive, preserving both our marine heritage and the livelihoods that depend on it.

?Source: 4FJ Movement

https://www.fijivillage.com/news/Ban-on-kawakawa-and-donu-starts-and-to-end-on-30th-September-45fxr8

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