In a significant step towards sustainable fisheries management, the coastal community of Popisi Village in Banggai Utara, Central Sulawesi, has taken the lead in safeguarding its marine resources. A recent technical workshop, organized by LINI in collaboration with local government agencies, equipped a community-based fisheries surveillance group (POKMASWAS) with the essential skills to effectively oversee the village’s fishing grounds. Held on September 21, 2024, the training workshop, provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of fisheries regulations, monitoring techniques, and enforcement procedures. By strengthening the capacity of the POKMASWAS, the initiative aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of the village’s fisheries while protecting its marine ecosystems.
The POKMASWAS will play a crucial role in patrolling local waters, identifying, and reporting illegal fishing activities, and promoting sustainable fishing practices among local fishers. The establishment of the POKMASWAS demonstrates the commitment of the local community to conserving their natural resources and securing a sustainable future for generations to come. By empowering local people to become active stewards of their environment, the initiative presents a promising model for community-based conservation in other coastal areas.
Surveillance for Community-led Temporary Closure Area
The implementation of temporary closures has already yielded positive results, with local fishers reporting increased fish abundance following three cycles of closures since 2018. However, compliance remains a challenge, as limited community patrolling has resulted in some fishers violating closure periods.
This year, POKMASWAS is prepared to support the implementation of the fourth temporary closure. The group’s role in patrolling the closures area is now formally recognised under a newly established village decree from May 2024. This technical training workshop was designed to strengthen the capacity of POKMASWAS to effectively monitor their waters. This initiative has fostered a stronger sense of community ownership and stewardship of the marine environment, demonstrating the power of local involvement in conservation efforts.
By Muhammad Taufiq, Eveline Kurniati and Gayatri Reksodihardjo
