COASTAL FISHERIES RESILIENCE PROJECT LAUNCHED

A multimillion-dollar initiative to strengthen Barbados’ coastal fisheries sector was officially launched on Monday, aimed at helping the industry rebound from the devastating impact of Hurricane Beryl in 2024.

The US$2.93 million (BDS$5.92 million) Coastal Fisheries Resilience Project, funded by the United Nations and the government of Japan, will support the recovery and long-term sustainability of the fishing industry through a wide range of infrastructure, training, and disaster preparedness measures.

At the launch event held at the Fisheries Division, UN Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, Limya Eltayeb, underscored the significance of the project, particularly as the island continues to recover from last year’s storm.

“The Bridgetown Fisheries Complex, the Oistins complex, and many smaller fishing sites were all severely affected. More than 200 boats were damaged, representing a major loss to the economy,” Eltayeb stated. “This initiative is a testament to the strength of our partnerships—with fisherfolk, the Fisheries Division, the Ministry of the Blue Economy, and the Government of Japan.”

The year-long project will go beyond physical reconstruction. According to Eltayeb, it will include the provision of emergency communications equipment, ice machines for fish vendors and processors, and a travel lift capable of hauling boats up to 52 tonnes at the Bridgetown Fisheries Complex. Additionally, disaster preparedness plans will be reviewed and updated, while fisherfolk and their union will benefit from capacity-building programmes, including training in boat building and business continuity.

Ambassador of Japan to Barbados, Misayaka Yusuke, highlighted the relevance of the initiative to both countries, pointing to shared vulnerabilities to extreme weather.

“Japan is no stranger to typhoons—much like hurricanes—that have devastated fishing infrastructure over the years,” he said. “We’ve developed strong early warning systems and disaster response strategies. This project brings that experience to Barbados, offering technological, infrastructural, and community-level support.”