SEAFDEC/IFRDMD Strengthens Collaboration on Inland Fisheries for Disaster Risk Reduction

On March 6, 2025, a pivotal online Coordination Meeting on Potential Collaboration within the SEAFDEC/IFRDMD Framework took place, bringing together the intersection of inland fisheries and disaster risk reduction. The meeting was co-led by Mr. Andi Soesmono, representing SEAFDEC/IFRDMD, and Dr. Andre Notohamijoyo, Assistant Deputy for Disaster Risk Reduction under the Deputy for Disaster and Social Conflict Management Coordination, Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Cultural Affairs of Indonesia.
Discussions centered on the crucial role of inland fisheries in mitigating disaster risks, emphasizing ecosystem conservation and restoration, flood and erosion prevention, food and economic security, climate change impact mitigation, and disaster management’s social and institutional aspects. The participants acknowledged that inland fisheries are not just about resource extraction but also vital in safeguarding communities against environmental and socio-economic shocks.
One of the flagship disaster mitigation initiatives highlighted during the meeting was IFRDMD’s SPEECTRA (Special Area for Conservation and Fish Refugia) model, launched in 2020. This innovative approach integrates fishery conservation with disaster mitigation strategies, ensuring ecological sustainability and community resilience.
The meeting was marked by productive and cooperative discussions, leading to actionable insights and commitments for follow-up measures. This collaboration underscores the increasing recognition of inland fisheries as a strategic asset in disaster risk reduction efforts across the region.