Conservation International (CI), in partnership with the Fisheries Division of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAF), officially concluded a 5-day workshop on ‘Trochus Shell Crafting and Jewelry-making’ on Monday 16 March, at the Hotel Millenia, Sogi.
The training brought together participants from 5 coastal communities, Satuimalufilufi, Samatau, Apai-Uta, Sama’ilauno and Fasito’otai, to build sustainable livelihoods through innovative and responsible use of marine resources, with a focus on the trochus (Rochia nilotica) shell. Guided by experienced trainers from the Fisheries Division – MAF, participants gained hands-on experience transforming underutilized trochus shells into value-added products, such as earrings and necklaces.
The closing ceremony was opened with a prayer and reflections by Rev. Sosaia Pese (Methodist Church, Fasito’otai), who was also a participant in the training. He reflected on how the trochus (aliao) is often underestimated as a resource, yet through the training, participants began to see its true value. He described these natural resources as blessings from God for humankind. “They are gifts placed within our oceans so that people may utilize it to provide food and income for their families”. He reminded communities of their responsibility to respect, care for and sustainably manage marine resources for present and future generations.
Guided by the theme “Treasures of the Reef: You Eat, Polish and Value It”, the training focused on sustainable harvesting practices, safe use of equipment, craftsmanship, creativity, and pathways for small business development. For many participants, this was their first experience with shell crafting. Post-evaluation results revealed a marked increase in confidence and enthusiasm, with participants expressing excitement about their new skills and the potential for income generation and small business opportunities.
Le’ausātilō Leilani Duffy, Country Director – CI Samoa emphasized the long term vision of the program “This training is only the beginning. Our goal is to support coastal communities to build small-scale enterprises and sustainably manage coastal fisheries resources so they can have more opportunities to be self-sufficient and strengthen their economic independence”.
The participants achievements were marked with a certificate presentation, led by the Associate Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Hon. Aiolupotea Toni Aiolupotea, alongside the High Commissioner of the UK to Samoa, His Excellency Gareth Hoar and CI Samoa Country Director, Leausalilo Leilani Duffy. The five communities proudly showcased their handicrafts, with several items sold to invited guests, demonstrating the immediate livelihood potential of the skills gained.
CI-Samoa acknowledges the technical expertise of the Fisheries Division in delivering this training, including the use of the machines and facilities. CI-Samoa also acknowledges the generous support of the United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (UKFCDO) in making this training possible. These important partnerships continue to play a vital role in advancing sustainable fisheries management and strengthening community-led conservation efforts across Samoa.
About Conservation International
Conservation International is a non-government organization that works to spotlight and secure the critical benefits that nature provides for humanity. The non-profit has worked in the Pacific Islands region for more than 20 years. Through science, policy, fieldwork, and finance, we spotlight and secure the most important places in nature for the climate, for biodiversity and for people. With offices in 30 countries and projects in more than 100 countries, Conservation International partners with governments, companies, civil society, Indigenous peoples and local communities to help people and nature thrive together. Go to Conservation.org for more, and follow our work on Conservation News, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
