- Dhaka concerned at dwindling funds for Rohingyas |
- Rohingya crisis in uncertainty; WASH sector faces challenges |
- HRW delegation meets Commission of Inquiry on Disappearances |
- US Chargé d'Affaires Ann Jacobson to Meet Political Parties in BD |
- With trees in flowering farmers hopeful of bumper mango crop |
Farida Calls for Sustainable Use of Marine Resources
Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter
Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter emphasized the importance of properly utilizing the country's natural and marine resources to boost economic prosperity. Speaking at a result-sharing and phase-out workshop for the ECOFISH-2 project, implemented by USAID, she highlighted that effective resource management could lift the nation from poverty.
“If we harness our natural and marine resources effectively, we can transform our economy,” Akhter stated during the event held at a local hotel on Monday. She commended the collaborative efforts of community members, experts, and scientists involved in the ECOFISH-2 project, which aims to enhance sustainable fisheries management and conservation.
Akhter specifically noted the significance of hilsa fish as a vital resource and stressed the need to protect the fishermen dedicated to conserving this species. She pointed out that the government is working to increase support for these fishermen during the hilsa fishing ban from October 13 to November 3.
The ECOFISH-2 project, in collaboration with the Department of Fisheries (DoF), aims to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing while promoting sustainable practices in the lower Meghna River ecosystem and the Bay of Bengal. The initiative supports coastal fishing communities and stakeholders in the fisheries value chain, enhancing resilience through adaptive co-management of hilsa sanctuaries and fostering alternative income-generating activities.
The workshop also featured contributions from M Zillur Rahman, Director General of the Department of Fisheries, USAID Bangladesh Mission Director Reed J. Aeschliman, Fisheries and Livestock Secretary Sayeed Mahmud Belal Haider, and Dr. Anuradha Bhadra, Director General of the Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute, along with representatives from various public and private agencies.