Community-based fisheries management (CBFM) in Kiribati is a significant approach aimed at sustainable fisheries and marine resource management, involving local communities in decision-making and stewardship. In summary, CBFM reflects a proactive approach to ensuring sustainable use of marine resources while empowering local communities to safeguard their livelihoods and cultural heritage.
Context and Importance
- Kiribati, an island nation in the central Pacific Ocean, heavily relies on fisheries as a vital resource for food security, livelihoods, and cultural identity.
- Overfishing, climate change impacts, and unsustainable practices have threatened marine resources, prompting the need for effective management.
Legal and Policy Framework
- The Coastal Fisheries Regulation 2019 and Fisheries Act support community-based fisheries management to manage fisheries resources at the community level.
- Regional level: New Song, Noumea Strategy (SPC 2015) and Pacific Framework for Scaling Up CBFM 2021-2025.
- These frameworks and policies emphasize community involvement, recognizing the traditional knowledge and practices of local communities.
Key Features of CBFM in Kiribati
Community Ownership
Communities develop their own management plans to manage their marine resources.
Co-Management Approaches
Collaborative partnerships between communities and government agencies such as MELAD, Tourism, and MOE are common.
Traditional Knowledge Integration
CBFM integrates traditional ecological knowledge with scientific data to inform decision-making.
Regulatory Measures
Seasonal closures, restricted areas, and limits on fishing gear and catch sizes to ensure sustainable practices.
Successes To-Date
- Improved fishery sustainability, increased community engagement and empowerment, and enhanced resilience to environmental changes.
- Since 2014, over 60 communities across 11 islands have been engaged in CBFM, with more communities requesting to join.
- 6 women's associations established to join in the management and conservation of marine resources.
Examples and Initiatives
- Kuuma MPA: Community closed areas where bonefish spawn to allow bonefish stocks to recover, closing only during the spawning season.
- Partnerships: Collaborative efforts with international organizations to support capacity building, research, and funding for CBFM initiatives.
History & Funding
The project has been funded by the Australian government since it started in 2014. The project is integrated into the Coastal Fisheries Division as one of its units. Many project activities are carried out in collaboration with other units within CFD, such as coral planting, catch monitoring, and bye-law development.
Main Activities
- Catch monitoring — collecting fishing data
- MPA — establishing community marine protected areas under the management plan
- Management plan — developing community management plans
- Women's groups
Contact: Community-Based Fisheries Management (CBFM) | Tel: 75021099 | Email: info@mfmrd.gov.ki