Barbuda’s fishing community has achieved a significant milestone with the recent handover of 19 new VHF radios to the Fisheries Department. This event, held during the annual Ocean Fest celebration on November 15th, underscores the power of collective effort in enhancing safety for the island’s fishers. The radios, funded through community fundraising, contributions from civic society groups, and the GlobalGiving network, are a vital step toward improving communication and safety for licensed fishers, particularly during adverse weather or emergencies at sea. The handover ceremony, attended by key figures such as Brandon Walker of barbudanGO, Devon Warner of the Fisherfolk Association, and Sophia Charles of Team Buda, highlighted the culmination of sustained community efforts. These radios enable fishers to communicate with each other and coastal authorities, receive weather updates, and call for assistance when necessary. Earlier this month, 22 beacon locators were also donated, further bolstering the safety infrastructure. These devices transmit a vessel’s location during emergencies, aiding search-and-rescue operations. Together, the radios and beacon locators bring Barbuda closer to equipping all 30 licensed fishing vessels. Anessa Hopkins, Head of the Fisheries Department, emphasized the life-saving impact of this initiative, noting its alignment with safety regulations set by the Antigua and Barbuda Fisheries Authority. Despite this progress, the campaign continues, requiring 8 more beacon locators, 11 additional VHF radios, and 30 GPS units to fully equip the fleet. Organizers remain optimistic, supported by local partnerships and the generosity of the GlobalGiving community. This initiative not only safeguards lives but also preserves Barbuda’s cultural and economic reliance on the sea, demonstrating the transformative power of community collaboration.
Community Groups Donate 19 VHF Radios to Barbuda Fisheries Department
