The quarterly meeting between USAID SuFiA TS and RPOA-IUU was held online via Zoom on November 1, 2024. The meeting was opened by Dr. Arlene N. Satapornvanit, Chief of Party, and attended by Mr. M. Eko Rudianto, Vice Executive Director of the RPOA-IUU Secretariat. Other participants included Smita Yamsangsung, Nguyen Thu Hue, Ananya Surangpimol, Len Graces, Joey Pedrajas, Farid Maruf, and Andri Purba, along with representatives from the RPOA-IUU Secretariat staff.
The main objective of the meeting was to review the progress of collaborations between RPOA-IUU and USAID SuFiA TS during 2024 and to discuss the work plans for 2024 and 2025.
During the meeting, the RPOA-IUU Secretariat presented key activities. The EAFM Technical Exchange (SCS REX I) was conducted in January 2024 in Manila, Philippines, with approximately 80 participants. The Second Discussion on Data Sharing Mechanism was held in July 2024, and its summary report has been circulated to member countries. A concept note on Decent Working Conditions in Fishing Vessels and the Seafood Industry has been submitted and will be endorsed at the 17th RPOA-IUU Coordination Committee Meeting. The Online FGD on Market Measure Traceability took place in September 2024, attended by representatives from six RPOA-IUU member countries. The Knowledge Management Platform has been established and will be presented during the upcoming 17th Coordination Committee Meeting. USAID SuFiA TS is also finalizing the development of reporting and evaluation tools.
Several follow-up actions were also discussed. Plans are underway to organize another FGD on Market Measure Traceability with NOAA as a key speaker. USAID SuFiA TS will refine ideas for further collaboration on decent working conditions and develop promotional materials on combating IUU fishing for the Knowledge Management Platform. Gender inclusivity activities were identified as a potential area for collaboration. USAID SuFiA TS offered support for improving the roadmap, including engaging consultants if needed. A workshop on lessons learned regarding country rules and regulations will proceed after the finalization of the ToR by the RPOA-IUU Secretariat.
It was recommended that a follow-up meeting be conducted to discuss the details of the 2025 work plan.
