THE Malaita Province Fisheries Division has successfully completed a tilapia scoping tour in the southern region of the province.
This is part of the preparations for the arrival of the newly introduced Nile Tilapia, known as Genetically Improved Farmed Tilapia (GIFT), expected later this year.
According to a report from the Malaita Province Fisheries Office, the scoping assessment was initiated and funded by the Malaita Provincial Government.
The purpose of the assessment was to identify and prepare local farmers for the introduction of the new species.
The scoping tour included consultation workshops with existing tilapia farmers, data collection on current and potential new farmers, on-site pond assessments, and the delivery of technical support.
Malaita Province Fisheries Officer Mathew Isihanua confirmed that the tour was also used to raise awareness about the GIFT strain of Nile Tilapia and to evaluate the readiness of local farmers.
“The assessment was conducted to identify and prepare farmers in the southern region for the arrival of the GIFT tilapia strain, which will soon be imported into the country,” Mr. Isihanua said.
“The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR) has established a hatchery at Aruligo in Guadalcanal, which will serve as the breeding and management site for the GIFT tilapia.”
A total of 13 active tilapia farmers in the southern region were visited and provided with technical support.
By SOLOMON LOFANA
Solomon Star, Auki
