Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam has inaugurated this year’s Fishermen’s Day celebration, Masveringe Gunzaru, held in Raa Dhuvaafaru with participation from 40 fishermen representing nine atolls, along with four fish processing companies.

The annual event, held on 10 December, brings together fishing communities to honour fishermen and highlight the enduring cultural and economic importance of the sector.

Fishermen and industry professionals from across the Maldives are taking part in this year’s programme, which features a variety of activities designed to celebrate traditional skills and strengthen community engagement within the fisheries sector.

A special fish filleting competition will be held on 13 December as part of the extended celebrations in Dhuvaafaru. Prizes will be awarded to the top three winners: MVR 3,000 for first place, MVR 2,000 for second place and MVR 1,000 for third place.

The Ministry stated that the purpose of Fishermen’s Day is to revive traditional fishing practices, strengthen appreciation of the occupation among the public and highlight the continued importance of fisheries to the national economy.