13 Fisheries Officers Appointed as Marine Mammal Observers
March 20, 2025 – Thirteen Fisheries Officers have successfully completed the Marine Mammal Observer training program, facilitated by the Joint Nature Conservation Committee of the United Kingdom.
This milestone highlights the Government of Guyana’s commitment to biodiversity protection within the nation’s marine and inland waterways.
Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, formally appointed the Fisheries Officers yesterday to serve as Marine Mammal Observers under the Fisheries (Marine Mammal Protection) Regulation 2022, in accordance with Section 17 (1) of the Fisheries Act of 2002, Chapter 71:08 of the laws of Guyana.
The appointed Marine Mammal Observers are now authorized to operate aboard vessels within Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone and hinterland waterways, with responsibilities to:
- Inspect, document, and report the presence of marine mammals
- Monitor potential interactions between marine life and fishing activities
- Assess species abundance in accordance with marine conservation regulations
Minister Mustapha emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating that it ensures Guyana has the necessary personnel and regulatory framework to align with regional and international trade partners.
“This program not only strengthens Guyana’s biodiversity protection efforts but also ensures that all seafood exported has been harvested in a responsible manner,” Minister Mustapha stated.
The initiative marks a key step in marine conservation, reinforcing sustainable fishing practices while enhancing Guyana’s role in responsible seafood trade.
