The Caribbean Natural Resources Institute (CANARI), in collaboration with Anguilla’s Department of Natural Resources – Fisheries and Marine Resources Unit (FMRU) recently convened a three-day participatory workshop aimed at strengthening communication, collaboration and engagement within the fisheries sector.
The workshop, held in Anguilla from March 4–6, 2026 and facilitated by CANARI, contributes to the development of a Stakeholder Engagement and Communication Strategy and Action Plan (SECSAP) for the FMRU. This work is being undertaken through a consultancy implemented by CANARI for the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission in collaboration with the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM) under the European Union-funded Biodiversity Support Programme for ACP Small Island Developing States and Coastal Environments (BioSPACE).
The SECSAP aims to improve how information is shared and how stakeholders engage in decision-making processes related to fisheries management in Anguilla. The session brought together fisherfolk, civil society organisations and government representatives to encourage open dialogue, collaborative problem-solving and more inclusive participation in fisheries governance.
The discussions and insights gathered during the workshop will directly inform the development of the SECSAP, as well as two communication products which will support the FMRU in fostering more transparent and effective engagement with stakeholders.
The workshop was also complemented by one-on-one interviews and focus group discussions with fisherfolk at Island Harbour, Sandy Ground and West End, ensuring that fisherfolk perspectives were captured in identifying key challenges and potential solutions for strengthening engagement within the sector.
Acting Director of the FMRU, Mr. Remone Johnson, underscored the importance of the initiative. “This workshop is dedicated to and shows the commitment of the Unit to get fishers more involved in the decision-making process and the development of the fishing sector,” Johnson said. Johnson also noted that “The SECSAP will aim to guide the FMRU as it seeks to update its fisheries legislation and management plans, with a strong emphasis on fisherfolk input. This also aligns well with the Government’s current focus on putting people first.”
CANARI facilitators will return to Anguilla in May 2026 to review the draft SECSAP with stakeholders. The development and implementation of the SECSAP is expected to contribute to stronger collaboration across Anguilla’s fisheries sector and support the long-term sustainability of marine resources and fishing livelihoods.
