This year, the Government of Barbados initiated the We Gatherin' 2025 initiative; an event intended to encourage Barbadians living both on island and abroad to deepen the connection between Barbados and its diaspora, diversify the economy by creating new sectors and businesses, empower Barbadian communities through enterprise, and foster greater community spirit and philanthropy among other things. Each month is dedicated to a parish which would host events for its communities, and October was Christ Church's turn to host, whose theme is 'The Sea.'
Fitting to this theme, the Christ Church We Gatherin' committee hosted the Future of Fishing Forum; an event which sought to bring together key voices in the industry to discuss sustainable solutions for Barbados' fishing sector.
The event featured presentations from the Honorable Adrian Forde, Minister of Environment and National Beautification, Green and Blue Economy, Simon Springett, United Nations Resident Coordinator for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, Dr. Shelly-Ann Cox, Chief Fisheries Officer, and Dr. Yvette Diei Ouadi, Fishery and Aquaculture Officer at the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
The Hon. Adrian Forde (top left), Mr. Simon Springett (top right), Dr. Shelly-Ann Cox (bottom left), and Dr. Yvette Diei Ouadi (bottom right). Photo credits: We Gatherin' Barbados.
These presentations facilitated key discussions on the fishing sector in the face of climate change and its resilience, and how the sector could incorporate more sustainable fishing practices, securing the future of the Blue Economy in Barbados.
Cover photo credit: We Gatherin' Barbados