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Cyclone Causes $2.9 million Damage to Fiji's Fisheries Sector

Sustainability Technology & equipment Economics +5 more

FIJI - Tropical Cyclone Winston, which hit Fiji during February and March this year, caused $2.9 million worth of damages to the fisheries sector, according to the Severe TC Winston fisheries survey.

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The survey, conducted by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), Locally Managed Marine Area Network, GVI, USP, Ministry of Fisheries and the Coral Reef Alliance, revealed that the provinces of Ra and Lomiviti recorded the highest damage.

The province of Ra recorded damage at $76,194 while Lomaiviti recorded $73,349, reports the FijiTimes.

WCS director Sangeeta Mangubhai said they calculated the overall damage and losses to boats, engines, fishing and post-harvest gear, and to fish aggregating devices in each province.

She said the survey results ranged from $205,578 to $954,581 and totalled $2,964,139.

"There were large differences in the losses and damage to boats and engines across individual districts and provinces, often based on their precise location within the cyclone impact zone," she said.

"The report is not focusing on income opportunities, but more on how TC Winston impacted fisheries, as a source of food and for livelihoods.

"The report documents how cyclone Winston impacted fishing communities, meaning their infrastructure, their livelihoods, and food security."

Ms Mangubhai said aquaculture was the main livelihood need identified in Cakaudrove, Tailevu and Lomaiviti provinces.

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