In a landmark demonstration of South-South cooperation, fisheries experts from the Turks and Caicos Islands have completed an intensive knowledge transfer program in Grenada focused on advanced Fish Aggregating Device (FAD) technology. The four-day exchange (March 16-19) enabled six TCI fishers and two fisheries officers to acquire hands-on experience in constructing and deploying these innovative marine systems that significantly enhance open-water fishing efficiency.
This capacity-building initiative represents a strategic advancement in regional fisheries collaboration under the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM). Grenada’s sophisticated FAD infrastructure has been modernized through the World Bank-funded ‘Unleashing the Blue Economy of the Caribbean’ (UBEC) project, building upon earlier technological foundations established through Japanese-funded CARIFICO initiatives between 2012-2017.
The exchange provided TCI delegates with unprecedented access to Grenada’s operational FAD systems, where they observed the harvesting of substantial pelagic species including yellowfin tuna exceeding 100 pounds. Participants gained practical technical expertise in FAD construction methods that will directly inform TCI’s upcoming pilot program scheduled for implementation in coming months.
Grenada’s Minister of Blue Economy and Marine Affairs, Hon. Lennox Andrews, characterized the exchange as “one very good example where, as a people, we can come together and work together to share our knowledge, share experiences, and create the competence and the human resources that we all need to develop our region.”
TCI fishers reported transformative experiences during the knowledge transfer. Veteran fisherman David Clare exclaimed, “It’s the greatest fishing [technology] I’ve ever seen in my life, and it works perfectly!” while Kevin Harvey noted the dramatic efficiency improvements compared to traditional trolling methods.
The TCI Department of Fisheries and Marine Resources Management Director Alwyn Ponteen emphasized the program’s alignment with UN Sustainable Development Goals regarding zero hunger, decent work, economic growth, and marine conservation. “This programme represents a strategic and sustainable investment in the youths, men, and women who form the backbone of our fisheries sector,” Ponteen stated.
Both nations have committed to ongoing collaboration, with Grenada’s Chief Fisheries Officer Nigel Gibbs anticipating “a lasting Caribbean relationship that will grow stronger in the future.” The TCI government confirms its resolution to develop sustainable FAD fisheries as part of its broader Sustainable Livelihoods Strategy, including comprehensive stakeholder consultations, management planning, and legislative reforms.