The Coastal Fisheries Training and Information Unit (TIU) team successfully returned on 1 May, from a mission to Kiritimati Island conducted from 21 April to 1 May 2026.

This activity is one of CFD, MFOR’s 100 Days Priorities: launching milkfish deboning products developed by private sector partners with support from the Coastal Fisheries Division.

The mission was successfully completed with strong participation and support from private sector stakeholders, particularly restaurants and hotels in Kiritimati. The program included practical training on milkfish deboning techniques, followed by a launching event marking the adoption of this value-adding approach by stakeholders.

Participants carried out their own milkfish deboning and showcased a variety of cooked (value added) deboned milkfish recipes during the event. While mastering the technique requires time and practice, participants were able to learn all the important steps involved in the deboning process.

This initiative creates exciting opportunities for income generation and improved livelihoods in Kiritimati, particularly for private sector businesses and the wider community. By adding value to milkfish products through deboning, stakeholders can attract greater customer interest and demand while providing a safer, more convenient, and enjoyable product for tourists, children, and the elderly.

CFD sincerely acknowledges and appreciates the financial support provided through the PROP and Ridge to Reef (R2R) Projects, which contributed to the successful implementation of this activity.

Sincere gratitude is also extended to all stakeholders including the LINNIX and participants whose active involvement helped make the mission a success.