Kiribati Advances Development of National Shark Management Plan
The Coastal Fisheries Division (CFD) of the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources (MFOR) successfully completed a Shark Management Plan (SMP) Development Workshop from 9 to 11 September 2026.The workshop was facilitated by the Te Patuitanga Team (Te Patui) from New Zealand's Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) as part of New Zealand's ongoing support for fisheries capacity development in Kiribati.Over the three-day workshop, 14 fisheries officers from across CFD came together to review the current shark fishery and begin developing Kiribati's Shark Management Plan. The plan aims to ensure the sustainable management and conservation of shark species while supporting economic opportunities and benefits for the people of Kiribati.The workshop builds on the Ministry's consultation report on Sharks and provided a valuable platform for participants to identify priority issues, develop management objectives and strategies, and design practical management measures that are fit for purpose and aligns with regional obligations and international commitments. In addition to strengthening shark conservation, the plan is expected to contribute to the long-term economic well-being and sustainable use of Kiribati's marine resources.MFOR extends its sincere appreciation to the Te Patui Team and the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), New Zealand, for their continued technical support, expertise, and partnership in advancing sustainable shark management and ocean stewardship in Kiribati.