LocationsJapanese Delegation Visits Fisheries Complex Set for Critical Upgrades
July 24, 2025
UNDP Resident Representative for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, Limya Eltayeb, in conversation with Japan's Parliamentary Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs during a site visit to the Bridgetown Fisheries Complex, which will receive equipment upgrades through the Japan-funded Barbados Coastal Fisheries Resilience Project.
Bridgetown, BARBADOS – As a demonstration of continued support, officials from the Government of Japan visited the Bridgetown Fisheries Complex on 24 July, ahead of a substantial investment to rebuild and enhance the fisheries sector after last year’s storm damage.
Through the Barbados Coastal Fisheries Resilience (BCFR) project, implemented by the United Nations Development Programme in partnership with the Barbados Fisheries Division, Japan will inject US$2.9 million into strengthening the sector, which was ravaged by Hurricane Beryl in July 2024. Over 200 boats were damaged, and fisherfolk have since advocated for support.
While in Barbados this week for a high-level mission, a Japanese delegation led by Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs, Arfiya Eri, visited the Bridgetown Fisheries Complex where a marine travel lift will be installed to haul large vessels to safe ground during storms. Additionally, work is planned for the repair and provision of ice machines which are critical for preserving fish and maintaining product quality for local and export markets.
The project will also provide a range of equipment, training and educational products to ensure fisherfolk can protect their property and maintain their livelihoods in the event of future disasters.
(L-R) UNDP Resident Representative for Barbados and Eastern Caribbean, Limya Eltayeb; Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs, Arfiya Eri; and Barbados' Chief Fisheries Officer, Dr. Shelly-Anne Cox.
Resident Representative for UNDP Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, Limya Eltayeb, expressed appreciation to the Government of Japan for supporting disaster risk and climate resilience efforts in Caribbean Small Island Developing States.
She said the BCFR project, which launched in April 2025, is just one way UNDP has been working to advance key Sustainable Development Goals, including the reduction of poverty, climate action, and sustainable use of marine resources.
Barbados' Chief Fisheries Officer, Dr. Shelly-Anne Cox leading a tour of the Bridgetown Fisheries Complex with Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs, Arfiya Eri and members of her delegation, as well as UNDP Resident Representative for Barbados and Eastern Caribbean, Limya Eltayeb.
“This project directly impacts livelihoods, particularly for those most vulnerable to climate-related shocks,” she said. “By working with Barbadians across the entire fisheries value chain – from harvest to market – we’re not only supporting recovery but strengthening long-term resilience. UNDP has been deeply engaged in advancing the blue economy across the Eastern Caribbean, and we look forward to seeing the impact this initiative will have in building a more sustainable and secure future for coastal communities.”
In the coming months, the BCFR project will engage learning institutions and a range of other stakeholders to create knowledge products, ensuring that boat builders and other stakeholders can benefit from disaster-resistant boatbuilding techniques, technologies and best practices.
About the Barbados Coastal Fisheries Resilience Project
The Barbados Coastal Fisheries Resilience (BCFR) project is implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) with funding from the Government of Japan. The project supports Barbados’ recovery from the impact of Hurricane Beryl while building long-term resilience in the fisheries sector. By strengthening infrastructure, equipping fisherfolk, and providing training and equipment, the BCFR project aims to protect coastal livelihoods, enhance food security, and contribute to sustainable blue economy development. Learn more: www.undp.org/barbados/projects/barbados-coastal-fisheries-resilience
About UNDP
UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and planet. Learn more at undp.org/barbados or follow at @UNDPBarbadosEC.
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