The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) and the National Fisheries Authority (NFA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on institutional strengthening and capacity building for Bougainville’s fisheries and marine resources sector.

The signing took place recently in Port Moresby city on the sidelines of the Ocean Summit, executed by ABG Minister for Fisheries Amanda Masono and National Minister for Fisheries Jelta Wong.

Minister Masono described the partnership as a blueprint for Bougainville’s self-reliance and maritime stewardship.

“It reflects our shared commitment to build a fisheries sector that delivers not only revenue, but dignity, jobs, and governance credibility for our people,” she said.

In her remarks, Minister Masono stated that the ABG had created the Department of Fisheries, Marine Resources and Climate Change in late 2025 to take full responsibility for fisheries development in Bougainville, with the long-term aim of establishing the Bougainville Fisheries Authority.

She added that the revised MOU now strengthens the cooperation framework between the ABG and NFA.

“It commits both parties to institutional strengthening, capacity building, legislative development, monitoring, compliance and surveillance enhancement, and joint fisheries development planning, as outlined in the MoU’s objectives and cooperation framework.”

“It ensures that Bougainville can progressively operationalize its fisheries powers and build the systems, skills, and institutions required for responsible management and sustainable development.”

Minister Masono concluded by acknowledging the NFA Minister, Managing Director, and their team for finalizing the long-overdue agreement, noting that their commitment reflected a genuine national partnership and respect for Bougainville’s development pathway.