A training programme titled “Biosecurity for Import and Export of Living Marine Organisms, Marine Animals and their Products in the Maldives” has been launched in the Maldives.

The programme is being conducted under the World Bank-funded Maldives – Transforming Fisheries Sector Management in the South West Indian Ocean Region and Maldives project, and is scheduled to take place from 7 to 8 January.

The training aims to strengthen national capacity to manage biosecurity risks associated with the movement of living marine organisms, marine animals and related products. Discussions focus on the prevention, detection and control of fish and animal diseases, as well as diseases that pose risks to human health. Participants are also being trained on diagnosis, reporting procedures and response mechanisms.

Officials from multiple Government institutions are taking part in the programme, including the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare, Maldives Marine Research Institute, Maldives Customs Service, Ministry of Tourism and Environment, Environmental Regulatory Authority, Maldives Airports Company Limited, Maldives Ports Limited, Maldives Food and Drug Authority and the Health Protection Agency.

The programme brings together key stakeholders involved in border control, regulation, surveillance and environmental protection as part of efforts to strengthen biosecurity governance in the Maldives.