Request for Quotation: Safety Grab Bags and Equipment

Matelina Stuart  Vacancies

You are invited to submit your price quotation for the Supply of Safety Grab Bags and Equipment (Component 2).

The Government of Tuvalu has received a Grant from the World Bank towards the cost of the Tuvalu Pacific Regional Oceanscape Program for Economic Resilience (PROPER) and intends to apply the proceeds of this grant to eligible payments under the contract for which this Request for Quotation is issued.

You must quote for all (100%) the items under this Invitation.

You shall submit by e-mail the Price Quotation with the Form of Quotation in accordance with the requirements specified in paragraph (9) below and addressed to:

Name: Samuelu Telii
Title: Project Coordinator
Project: Tuvalu Pacific Regional Oceanscape Program for Economic Resilience
Email Address: samuelut@tuvalufisheries.tv OR propertuv@gmail.com

Where forms are required to be signed, scanned copies of the signed forms should be attached in the email.

Your quotation in English language should be accompanied by adequate technical documentation and catalogue(s), or pertinent information for each quoted item.

The deadline for receipt of your quotation(s) by the Purchaser at the address indicated in Paragraph 4 is: 11 March, 2024 before close of business 4:00pm, Tuvalu time.
The evaluation of the price quotations will be conducted through procedures for RFQ as set out in the World Bank’s Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers, November 2020, which can be accessed from the World Bank website Procurement-Regulations.pdf (worldbank.org)
Quotations by electronic means are acceptable.

Your quotation should be submitted as per the following instructions and in accordance with the attached Contract. The attached Terms and Conditions of Supply is an integral part of the Contract. Incomplete or partial Quotations not filled out according to the instructions may be rejected. Alternative quotations/options are not allowed.

Your quotation should include the following:

a. Completed and signed Form of Quotation (Attachment 1); and

b. Completed and signed Terms and Conditions of Supply (Attachment 3); and

c. Completed and signed Compliance Statement (Attachment 4) demonstrating substantial responsiveness of the goods offered to the technical specification required, along with any technical documentation and/or catalogues of proposed products;

d. Priced and signed Bill of Quantities (Attachment 5 – Excel file). The prices should be quoted for delivery CIP Funafuti for imported goods according to INCOTERMS, 2020. Prices may be quoted in any single freely convertible currency. Prices should not include custom duties, excise-duty, and custom procedures tax in the Republic of Tuvalu. Prices quoted shall be fixed and not subject to any adjustment during contract performance.

2. EVALUATION OF QUOTATIONS:

Offers determined to be substantially responsive to the technical specifications will be evaluated by comparing the evaluated price.

The Purchaser will determine for each item the evaluated price, by adjusting the price quotation by making any correction for any arithmetical errors as follows:

i. Where there is a discrepancy between amounts in figures and in words, the amount in words will govern.
ii. Where is a discrepancy between the unit rate and the line item total resulting from multiplying the unit rate by the quantity, the unit rates as quoted will govern.
iii. If a Supplier refuses to accept the correction, his quotation will be rejected.
Prices quoted will be evaluated for all items together and the contract awarded to the bidder offering the lowest evaluated total price of all items.

For comparison of evaluated prices, the total evaluated price for all items will be converted to Australian Dollars at the selling rate of exchange prevailing on the deadline date for submission of quotations as issued by the ANZ bank.

3. AWARD OF CONTRACT:

A Contract will be awarded to the bidder offering the lowest evaluated price for all items, and which technically compliant with the required specifications. The successful participant will sign a Contract as per attached Form of Contract and Terms and Conditions of Supply.

4. VALIDITY OF THE OFFER:

Your quotation(s) should be valid for a period of sixty [60] days from the deadline for receipt of quotation(s) indicated in Paragraph 6 of this Request for Quotation.

Further information can be obtained from:
Name: Reena Mataio
Title: Procurement Officer
Project: Tuvalu Pacific Regional Oceanscape Program for Economic Resilience
Email Address: reenam@tuvalufisheries.tv OR propertuv@gmail.com

The Bidder is expected to examine all instructions, forms, terms, and specifications in the Request for Quotation. Failure to furnish all information or documentation required by the Request for Quotation may result in the rejection of the quotation.

A prospective bidder requiring any clarification of the Request for Quotation shall contact the Purchaser in writing (email) at the Purchaser’s address specified in the Paragraph 4.9. The Purchaser will notify all invited bidders of any request for clarification and the response, provided that any such request is received no later than two (2) calendar days prior to the deadline for receiving of quotes.

At any time prior to the deadline for receiving of quotes, the Purchaser may amend the Request for Quotation by issuing an addendum. Any addendum issued shall be part of the Request for Quotation and shall be communicated in writing to all who have obtained the Request for Quotation directly from the Purchaser.

The bidder shall bear all costs associated with the preparation and submission of its quote, and the Purchaser shall not be responsible or liable for those costs, regardless of the conduct or outcome of the bidding process.

The Purchaser reserves the right to accept or reject any quote, and to annul the bidding process and reject all quotes at any time prior to contract award, without thereby incurring any liability to bidders.

At the time the Contract is awarded, the Purchaser reserves the right to increase or decrease the quantity of goods, provided this does not exceed fifteen (15) percentage per item, and without any change in the unit prices or other terms and conditions of the quote and the Request for Quotation.

Please confirm by e-mail the receipt of this invitation and whether or not you will submit the price quotation(s).

Request for Quotation: Various ICT Equipment

Matelina Stuart  Uncategorized, Vacancies

You are invited to submit your price quotation for the Supply of Various ICT Equipment – Lot 2 & 3 (Component 1).

The Government of Tuvalu has received a Grant from the World Bank towards the cost of the Tuvalu Pacific Regional Oceanscape Program for Economic Resilience (PROPER) and intends to apply the proceeds of this grant to eligible payments under the contract for which this Request for Quotation is issued.

You must quote for all (100%) the items under this Invitation.

You shall submit by e-mail the Price Quotation with the Form of Quotation in accordance with the requirements specified in paragraph (9) below and addressed to:

Name: Samuelu Telii
Title: Project Coordinator
Project: Tuvalu Pacific Regional Oceanscape Program for Economic Resilience
Email Address: samuelut@tuvalufisheries.tv OR propertuv@gmail.com

Where forms are required to be signed, scanned copies of the signed forms should be attached in the email.

Your quotation in English language should be accompanied by adequate technical documentation and catalogue(s), or pertinent information for each quoted item.

The deadline for receipt of your quotation(s) by the Purchaser at the address indicated in Paragraph 4 is: 12 March, 2024 before close of business at 4pm, TUVALU time.

The evaluation of the price quotations will be conducted through procedures for RFQ as set out in the World Bank’s Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers, November 2020, which can be accessed from the World Bank website Procurement-Regulations.pdf (worldbank.org)
Quotations by electronic means are acceptable.

Your quotation should be submitted as per the following instructions and in accordance with the attached Contract. The attached Terms and Conditions of Supply is an integral part of the Contract. Incomplete or partial Quotations not filled out according to the instructions may be rejected. Alternative quotations/options are not allowed.

Your quotation should include the following:

a. Completed and signed Form of Quotation (Attachment 1); and

b. Completed and signed Terms and Conditions of Supply (Attachment 3); and

c. Completed and signed Compliance Statement (Attachment 4) demonstrating substantial responsiveness of the goods offered to the technical specification required, along with any technical documentation and/or catalogues of proposed products;

d. Priced and signed Bill of Quantities (Attachment 5 – Excel file). The prices should be quoted for delivery CIP Funafuti for imported goods according to INCOTERMS, 2020. Prices may be quoted in any single freely convertible currency. Prices should not include custom duties, excise-duty, and custom procedures tax in the Republic of Tuvalu. Prices quoted shall be fixed and not subject to any adjustment during contract performance.

2. EVALUATION OF QUOTATIONS:

Offers determined to be substantially responsive to the technical specifications will be evaluated by comparing the evaluated price.

The Purchaser will determine for each item the evaluated price, by adjusting the price quotation by making any correction for any arithmetical errors as follows:

i. Where there is a discrepancy between amounts in figures and in words, the amount in words will govern.
ii. Where is a discrepancy between the unit rate and the line item total resulting from multiplying the unit rate by the quantity, the unit rates as quoted will govern.
iii. If a Supplier refuses to accept the correction, his quotation will be rejected.

Prices quoted will be evaluated for all items together and the contract awarded to the bidder offering the lowest evaluated total price of all items.

For comparison of evaluated prices, the total evaluated price for all items will be converted to Australian Dollars at the selling rate of exchange prevailing on the deadline date for submission of quotations as issued by the ANZ bank.

3. AWARD OF CONTRACT:

A Contract will be awarded to the bidder offering the lowest evaluated price for all items, and which technically compliant with the required specifications. The successful participant will sign a Contract as per attached Form of Contract and Terms and Conditions of Supply.

4. VALIDITY OF THE OFFER:

Your quotation(s) should be valid for a period of sixty [60] days from the deadline for receipt of quotation(s) indicated in Paragraph 6 of this Request for Quotation.

Further information can be obtained from:
Name: Reena Mataio
Title: Procurement Officer
Project: Tuvalu Pacific Regional Oceanscape Program for Economic Resilience
Email Address: reenam@tuvalufisheries.tv OR propertuv@gmail.com

The Bidder is expected to examine all instructions, forms, terms, and specifications in the Request for Quotation. Failure to furnish all information or documentation required by the Request for Quotation may result in the rejection of the quotation.

A prospective bidder requiring any clarification of the Request for Quotation shall contact the Purchaser in writing (email) at the Purchaser’s address specified in the Paragraph 4.9. The Purchaser will notify all invited bidders of any request for clarification and the response, provided that any such request is received no later than two (2) calendar days prior to the deadline for receiving of quotes.

At any time prior to the deadline for receiving of quotes, the Purchaser may amend the Request for Quotation by issuing an addendum. Any addendum issued shall be part of the Request for Quotation and shall be communicated in writing to all who have obtained the Request for Quotation directly from the Purchaser.

The bidder shall bear all costs associated with the preparation and submission of its quote, and the Purchaser shall not be responsible or liable for those costs, regardless of the conduct or outcome of the bidding process.

The Purchaser reserves the right to accept or reject any quote, and to annul the bidding process and reject all quotes at any time prior to contract award, without thereby incurring any liability to bidders.

At the time the Contract is awarded, the Purchaser reserves the right to increase or decrease the quantity of goods, provided this does not exceed fifteen (15) percentage per item, and without any change in the unit prices or other terms and conditions of the quote and the Request for Quotation.

Please confirm by e-mail the receipt of this invitation and whether or not you will submit the price quotation(s).

Re Advertisement: Exciting Opportunity for Research Assistant in Tuvalu! Join the APN Funded Project on Marine Plastics and Indigenous Knowledge Integration!

Matelina Stuart  Vacancies  , , , , ,

This research project is a regional project funded by the Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research under the Collaborative Regional Research Programme. The project team involves several academics from USP as well as partners across the region.
The project addresses the important need to provide regionally-representative information on changes in fisheries and pollution exposure, to incorporate Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) of fisheries into management recommendations, and to build capacity and support conservation efforts. This project will take place in four geographically diverse PICTs – Fiji, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu – and has four distinct objectives: (i) build capacity in PICTs, (ii) establish a regional baseline for microplastics (MP) in reef-associated food fishes, (iii) document TEK around reef-associated food fishes and pollution using social science methodologies, and (iv) inform national and regional conservation efforts. Via the coproduction of research and knowledge with in-country partners, this project will provide a much-needed regional baseline of MP contamination in common food fishes (indicating risk to human health/nutrition), while the TEK will identify preferences and catch trends, and yield key biological information that can inform management tools addressing food security.

We are seeking a Research Assistant to be part of the Tuvalu component of the project, to play a key role in running workshops as well as data collection and analysis alongside the project team, as follows:
• Support the planning and conduction of workshops to train identified stakeholders.
• Collect and analyze microplastics from fish gastrointestinal tracts.
• Collect relevant data through interviews with local identified stakeholders.
• Translate interviews from Tuvaluan into English.
• Liaise with the different members of the project and local stakeholders from Governmental Departments and communities.

The Persons We Seek

Applicants for Research Assistant should meet the minimum following essential criteria;
1. Ideally the candidate would be currently enrolled in or have recently completed (within the last five years) a postgraduate degree in Environmental, Marine or Social Science, or Marine Management. However, applicants will be considered also if they have recently completed an undergraduate degree in any of the above, or similar, programs, and are not yet enrolled in a postgraduate degree.
2. Be willing to learn about documenting Traditional Ecological Knowledge.
3. Some knowledge of reef-associated fish and fisheries.
3. Be a citizen of Tuvalu and able to speak fluently in Tuvaluan.
4. Ability to communicate and liaise effectively with relevant stakeholders.
5. Experience in laboratory analysis (microplastics).
6. Time management skills.
7. Willingness to travel within Tuvalu.

Remuneration

Remuneration will be dependent on qualifications, according to the USP standard hourly rates ($9-12 FJD/h). Contract duration will be ca. 5 months on a part-time contract (20-25 h/week), with the position planned to start in March 2024. Travel and research costs are covered by the project.

How to Apply

Please send your application (which includes a cover letter, resume, certified copies of qualifications and three references) to Dr. Amanda Ford at amanda.ford@usp.ac.fj based at Marine Studies, Ext 32836 by February 16th 2024.

Request for Expressions of Interest: Recruiting Agents for Fishing Crew

Matelina Stuart  Vacancies  , , , ,

Tuvalu Fisheries Department, on the instructions of the Cabinet, is seeking expressions of interest from Tuvaluan national companies to take on the role of agents to recruit Fishing Crew on Tuvalu flag purse seiners. There are at least 30 positions available for fishing crew for contracts of one year or more. If the initial placements are successful there may be more opportunities on foreign flag vessels.

Responsibilities:

The recruiting agents will be responsible, among other duties, for:

• Liaising with the Fisheries Department to understand the work required and identify Tuvaluans who may have been trained for these positions (purse seiner crew training at TMTI);
• Selecting suitably qualified and motivated Tuvaluan citizens to take up these opportunities;
• Ensuring that all selected persons are medically fit and able to handle the physical work required;
• Ensuring that each employee understands their terms of employment and signs a contract with the employer;
• Liaising with employers to arrange travel for employees to take up their duties and ensuring that they are fully briefed on travel arrangements, have all necessary documents and visas and depart on schedule;
• Maintaining contact with employees while they are overseas and bringing any issues to the attention of their employers and/or the Government of Tuvalu as appropriate;
• Receiving monthly remittance payments from the employer, and ensuring that these are credited immediately to the bank accounts of nominated dependents in Tuvalu;
• Facilitating the repatriation of employees at the end of their assignments, or earlier in the event of an emergency.

Requirements:

Essential:

Recruitment agents must:

i. have a registered company which is wholly owned by one or more Tuvaluan nationals – please provide a Company Registration certificate;

ii. demonstrate, by providing a bank statement or other evidence, that they have the necessary financial resources to run the company – please provide a bank statement or bank letter showing that you have at least $10,000 in your account or can obtain a loan of this amount to start the business;

iii. have basic office facilities including good international communications – please provide a photograph of the building or room you will use as an office;

iv. have experience of recruiting staff – please explain in your EOI your experience of staff recruitment (e.g. ‘I have run my own company for 5 years and recruited the 10 staff that work for me’.);

v. have a good command of English.

Desirable:

vi. experience of recruiting and placing seamen on foreign ships – please explain if you have this experience and how you got it (e.g. “I worked for a crewing agency in Tarawa for four years and we placed 120 crew on foreign vessels.”;
vii. understanding of, and contacts with, Korean and/or Taiwanese tuna fishing companies;
viii. knowledge of employment law and regulations relevant to this area.

Expressions of Interest

If you are interested in this opportunity, please submit an Expression of Interest in writing to the acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Fisheries and Trade, by 23rd February. Your EOI should explain how you and your company meets the requirements listed above and provide the supporting documents mentioned above. You should also provide an indication of the recruitment charges that you propose to levy on the employer – either as a dollar amount or as a % of crew costs. Any charges or deductions from employees in exchange for arranging their employment are not permitted.

Tuvalu leads the way in ensuring safe and fair fishing: A GLOBAL CALL TO ACTION

Matelina Stuart  Admin  , , , , , , ,

In a celebration of commitment to the rights and welfare of fishing crews, Tuvalu stole the spotlight at the WCPFC 20 conference in Rarotonga. Acknowledging the commendable efforts of the Commission, Tuvalu stands shoulder to shoulder with fellow members, voicing support and sharing strides taken to safeguard the rights of those toiling in its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

Tuvalu proudly announced its proactive measures during the conference, showcasing a groundbreaking initiative implemented in 2020. With the steadfast support of the FFA, Tuvalu adopted a national regulation setting minimum labor and human rights standards for fishing vessels operating in its waters. This milestone makes Tuvalu one of the pioneering Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in the WCPO region under the FFA.

The global pandemic posed challenges, but Tuvalu’s government proved resilient. Plans were laid out for regular meetings with stakeholders to implement and enforce the law, slated to begin on January 1, 2024.

Collaboration has been key for Tuvalu. Consultations with the FFA, the International Labour Organization (ILO), other UN agencies, the Commission, and fishing partner companies have been ongoing. Recently, funds from the government of New Zealand were utilized for comprehensive training programs for Tuvalu crews in Funafuti.

Tuvalu’s gratitude extends beyond its borders. There is acknowledgment of potential assistance from funds such as the Canada Indo-Pacific Programme to further support these vital regulations. Tuvalu also tips its hat to the faculty staff at ANCORS, University of Wollongong, for their indirect yet impactful work, providing valuable guidance and recommendations.

As a small country with a population just over 11,000, Tuvalu understands the intrinsic value of its people, holding them close to its heart. Standing before the commission, Tuvalu issues a call to all Coastal States to unite in mutual support, ensuring that work in the fishing industry is safe, dignified, and fulfilling for every fisher on every vessel.

Tuvalu’s story is one of resilience, collaboration, and a passionate commitment to a brighter and safer future for all who contribute to the lifeblood of the oceans.

Tuvalu and Korea Strengthen Ties with Historic Fisheries Cooperation and Aid Project

Matelina Stuart  Admin, Uncategorized  , , , , , ,

Funafuti, Tuvalu – A momentous celebration took place last week as Tuvalu and Korea joined hands to commemorate their long-standing and mutually beneficial cooperation, particularly in the flourishing fisheries sector. This historic partnership, rooted in trust and friendship, has been a cornerstone of both nations’ prosperity.

Korean fishing vessels have been a common sight in Tuvalu waters since the early 1980s. Today, Korea stands as Tuvalu’s most vital bilateral fishing partner, making an indispensable contribution to the government’s revenue. This enduring connection has woven the fabric of these two nations, transcending borders and cultures.

The grand celebration in Funafuti saw the convergence of esteemed Tuvalu Government Officials, including the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Local Government, a dedicated Korean delegation comprising 39 members, and diligent staff from the Ministry of Fisheries & Trade. Over 200 invited guests added to the festivity, transforming the idyllic Funafuti Island into a symbol of international camaraderie.
The Republic of Korea, through its Official Development Assistance (ODA) Project, has extended a generous hand to Tuvalu, pledging an impressive US$5 million in financial assistance. These funds will be dedicated to the construction of critical infrastructure, including the Fisheries Department Training Centre, storage facilities, a boat shed, a fisheries jetty, and a solar system for the National Fishing Corporation of Tuvalu (NAFICOT) and the Fisheries Observer and Fisheries Assistant Office (FOFA). As a testament to the depth of their commitment, Korea has also offered to provide outboard motor training for Tuvalu’s fisheries staff in Suva, Fiji, along with a unique Korean culture and language training experience for Tuvalu Fisheries Observers. This project stands as a historic first for Korea’s involvement in Tuvalu, signifying a new era of cooperation and shared goals.

Korea’s significance to Tuvalu extends beyond fisheries revenue. On average, Korean vessels purchase around 40% of Tuvalu’s annual permitted fishing effort (PAE) each year but they are also the primary employer for Tuvalu’s diligent Fisheries observers. Offers have also been made to employ Tuvaluan trainees in fish processing factories in Korea.

The celebratory program kicked off last week, at Queen Elizabeth Park Hall. Korean delegates organized a special program and engaging activities with the school’s young students, fostering an atmosphere of shared learning and cultural exchange.

The main event, a grand spectacle held on November 3rd, 2023, at Queen Elizabeth Park Hall and Tomasi Puapua Convention Centre from 9:00 am to 12:30 pm, featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony and inspiring speeches. Tuvalu Acting Prime Minister, Hon. Ampelosa Tehulu, and Mr. Meyong-dal Song, Deputy Minister for Oceans and Fisheries of the Government of the Republic of Korea, shared their thoughts. The Ambassador for the Embassy of South Korea in Suva, Fiji, Mr. Park Youngkyu, also added his voice to this remarkable chorus of friendship.

Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Minister of Fisheries & Trade summed up the sentiment, stating, “I thank you for your support and generosity through this US$5 million project. Tuvalu has benefited from donations of goods and equipment from Korea in the past, and this major new project takes Korea’s development cooperation to a new level.” He further emphasized the profound and enduring bond in the fisheries sector, underscoring the vital role played by Korea in contributing to the Tuvalu Government’s revenue.

The program continued with a captivating showcase of Korean culture, illuminating videos about Korea’s contributions to climate change response, and further cultural exchanges and performances that celebrated the shared heritage of Korea and Tuvalu. The day concluded with a delectable brunch prepared by the Government of Tuvalu, symbolizing the unity and shared future envisaged by the event.

As the sun set on this remarkable day, the festivities continued with a closing dinner hosted at the Funafuti Lagoon Hotel. This exquisite evening brought together Korean VIPs and Tuvalu Government Officials, symbolizing the enduring friendship and the bright future of collaboration between these two nations. The event was graciously hosted by Mr. Meyong-dal Song, Deputy Minister for Oceans and Fisheries of the Government of the Republic of Korea.

The launch of the Korean ODA Project marks a significant milestone, underscoring the power of international cooperation, friendship, and shared aspirations. This initiative is poised to leave an indelible mark on Tuvalu’s fisheries sector and the overall prosperity of the nation, heralding a new era of development and collaboration that will benefit generations to come.

Ten Tuvaluan Crew Members Graduate as Purse Seine Experts

Matelina Stuart  Uncategorized  , , , , , , ,

In a significant step towards bolstering its domestic fishing industry and providing employment opportunities for its citizens, Tuvalu Maritime Training Institute (TMTI) and the Tuvalu Fisheries Department (TFD) jointly celebrated the graduation of ten local Tuvaluans as purse seine crew members. This achievement aligns with Tuvalu Fisheries’ primary objectives of nurturing opportunities for Tuvaluan fishing crew and ensuring that all Tuvalu-flagged vessels employ Tuvalu crew members.

The graduation ceremony took place at the Tuvalu Maritime Training Institute (TMTI), commencing at 10:30 am today, Friday the 6th of October 2023. The event featured remarks from key figures, including SPC Fisheries Development Officer- Fishing Technology William Sokimi, TFSP Manager Noa Petueli, Fisheries Deputy Director Fulitua Tealei, and TMTI CEO Uale Sinapati.

William Sokimi, the SPC Fisheries Development Officer – Fishing Technology, provided comprehensive training to the ten graduates on handling purse seine operations aboard vessels. TMTI staff members contributed to the program by delivering training on various aspects of sea safety, first aid, occupational health and safety, firefighting, and survival at sea. The intensive purse seine training program was successfully completed within a month and was funded by the Tuvalu Fisheries Support Program (TFSP2).

Expressing his appreciation, Uale Sinapati, CEO of TMTI, extended gratitude to Mr. Sokimi, TMTI and TFD staff, and TFSP for their collective efforts in the successful purse seine crew training. He emphasized the importance of maintaining and continuing such training programs in the future.

William Sokimi, the SPC Fisheries Development Officer, shared his pleasure in collaborating with TMTI staff, particularly in training the ten new crew members. He highlighted the training as an opportunity to rejuvenate and enhance their skills as seafarers. Sokimi expressed his commitment to ongoing purse seine training to ensure the recruitment of high-quality crew for future endeavours.

Fulitua Tealei, Tuvalu Fisheries Deputy Director, congratulated the ten new crew members on their achievements. She stated that the Fisheries Department is actively working on placing local crew members on Tuvalu-flagged purse seine vessels. Tealei expressed optimism about the prospects of Tuvalu crew members being placed on six purse seine vessels, including five Korean vessels and one Taiwanese vessel, in the near future.

The Government of Tuvalu remains committed to promoting employment opportunities on fishing vessels and has established new policies and regulations to ensure fair wages and proper care for local purse seine crew members by their employers. This initiative reflects Tuvalu’s dedication to nurturing its fishing industry and providing valuable livelihood opportunities for its citizens.

The graduation of these 10 purse seine crews represents a significant stride in advancing Tuvalu’s fisheries sector while empowering local talent and contributing to the nation’s economic development.

Join the PNAO Team as a VDS/VMS Officer!

Matelina Stuart  Vacancies  , , , , ,

Are you passionate about marine conservation and fisheries management? Do you have the skills and experience to make a difference in the Pacific region? The Parties to the Nauru Agreement Office (PNAO) is looking for a dedicated VDS/VMS Officer to play a vital role in our mission to safeguard our oceans.

Position: VDS/VMS Officer

Location: PNA Headquarters, Pacific Region

Responsibilities: As a VDS/VMS Officer at PNAO, you will be at the forefront of marine resource management. Your key responsibilities will include:

✅ Assisting in the management and administration of the Vessel Day Scheme (VDS).

✅ Monitoring and reporting on Vessels MTUs and FAD Buoys in FIMS (Fisheries Information Management System).

✅ Reviewing, verifying, and updating positional data in PNA FIMS for VDS error correction.

✅ Maintaining data integrity in FIMS received through FIMS Users.

✅ Conducting VDS trainings and workshops.

✅ Providing technical support to Parties, industry, and other FIMS users.

✅ Managing relations with PNA VDS/VMS Service Providers.

✅ Reviewing technological requirements and scoping documents to ensure the effective and efficient operation of the VDS.

✅ Reporting to Parties at the PNA Annual and Special PNA meetings.

✅ Performing other duties as assigned.

Essential Requirements: To excel in this role, you should possess:

🎓 A High School degree or equivalent.

🎓 Training qualification as a fishery officer/observer.

🎓 Training in IT or a relevant subject area.

🎓 A relevant degree (desirable).

👥 A minimum of two years’ experience in VDS administration at the Party level.

💻 Experience in operating databases, spreadsheets, word processing, and reporting systems.

💼 High-level computer operating skills.

📝 Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.

For a detailed job description, visit  the PNA website at www.pnatuna.com

What PNAO Offer: The successful applicant will be offered a three-year contract with a comprehensive remuneration package, including the possibility of extension.

Application Details: This position is open to anyone, but preference is given to PNA nationals. To apply, please submit the following documents electronically to jobs@pnatuna.com:

  1. A letter of interest addressed to the CEO.
  2. A brief CV highlighting your relevant experience and qualifications.
  3. Two reference letters.

Application Deadline: Sunday, October 15, 2023

Join us in making a real impact on sustainable fisheries management in the Pacific region. Apply now and be part of the PNAO team dedicated to preserving our oceans for future generations. 🌊🐟🌏 #PNACareers #MarineConservation #FisheriesManagement

Closed: Vacancy Advertisement: 2 Community Fisheries Officer

Matelina Stuart  Vacancies  , , ,

Are you passionate about fisheries and eager to make a difference in your community? The TFSP2 project under the Tuvalu Fisheries Department is recruiting two Community Fisheries Officers to work in Niutao and Nukufetau. If you have a strong educational background or seaman training experience and are dedicated to enhancing fisheries management in your home island, we want to hear from you.

Position Requirements:

  • Minimum qualification: Form Six graduate with excellent grades in Maths and English OR completion of seaman training at Amatuku.
  • Strong interest in fisheries management and development within local communities.
  • Physically fit and enthusiastic about fishing and diving.
  • Possess good practical skills.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Assist in the management and development of fisheries activities within the Niutao community.
  • Collaborate with local stakeholders to promote sustainable fishing practices.
  • Engage in data collection and analysis related to fisheries.
  • Participate in community outreach and educational programs.

Employment Details:

  • Contract duration: Up to 1 year, with potential for extension subject to Government funding.
  • Salary: Commencing at $12,100 per year (based on Level 8/7 of the Government scale).
  • 10-week training program at TMTI and Fisheries provided to successful applicants.
  • Additional short in-service courses for skill enhancement.

How to Apply:

  •  Click here to download the full job description in PDF format: Job Description CFOs – Niutao
  • Pick up a printed copy of the job description from our Teone office.
  • Send your letter of application to opetaia.noa@gmail.com through email, or bring a hard copy to the Fisheries office during working hours only.

Application Deadline: October 2, 2023

If you are enthusiastic about preserving Tuvalu’s rich marine resources, promoting sustainability, and contributing to your local community, this is the opportunity you’ve been waiting for! Join us in making a positive impact on Niutao and Nukufetau’s fisheries.

Tuvalu Takes Bold Steps to Access Lucrative EU Fish Market

Matelina Stuart  Admin  , , , , , ,

In a significant development for Tuvalu’s fishing industry, the country has taken critical steps to secure a spot on the European Union (EU) market. Two key initiatives have been launched recently, marking a substantial leap forward for the nation’s aspirations to boost its economic prospects.

From August 7th to 18th, 2023, the Institute of Applied Science within the University of the South Pacific in Suva, Fiji, hosted the “Regional Sampling Training for Competent Authority for Health Certification.” This comprehensive training program aimed to strengthen the capabilities and competencies of Pacific Island Countries’ (PIC) Competent Authorities (CAs), which serve as focal points in accessing the EU market. The training was funded through the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) and was facilitated by the FFA market access team.

The need for such training has grown in response to the increasing interest among Pacific Island Countries to access the EU market. As demand for product safety compliance rises, the training emphasized the importance of health indicator sampling and product safety.

In a parallel effort, the Tuvalu Department of Fisheries welcomed its Competent Authority Technical Officer on August 25th, 2023. This strategic appointment is a crucial step towards achieving Tuvalu’s goal of gaining access to the EU market. The move aligns with the long-discussed interest of Tuvalu’s fishing industry, which consists of Tuvalu-flagged vessels, to expand its market opportunities.

The Competent Authority Technical Officer was officially recruited in June and officially started work on August 25th, 2023. The program is funded by New Zealand under the Tuvalu Fisheries Support Programme Phase 2 (TFSP2). The recruitment of the Competent Authority Technical Officer is a clear indication of Tuvalu’s commitment to fostering cooperation between the private sector and public enterprises. This collaboration is seen as a vital catalyst for accessing international markets.

The Tuvalu Competent Authority’s establishment is a response to the EU’s stringent regulations, particularly the recently enacted Food Safety (Fishery Products) Regulation 2022. Under EU rules, exporting commodities to its member countries necessitates the establishment of a Competent Authority in the exporting nation to provide official assurance of product safety.

These developments come as international markets increasingly require Competent Authority endorsement for fish and fishery products exported to them, with the EU, China, New Zealand, and even the United States recognizing the importance of Competent Authorities.

The Tuvalu Department of Fisheries has taken proactive steps to strengthen its position in the global marketplace, with the potential to significantly enhance government revenue and, consequently, impact the social and economic well-being of the Tuvalu population.

This ambitious move signifies Tuvalu’s commitment to navigating the complex landscape of international trade while seizing the opportunities that lie ahead. As the country positions itself for EU market access, it opens doors to greater economic stability and prosperity for its people.