A new research vessel, funded by Japan, has been launched for Mauritania's Institute for Ocean and Fisheries Research. The vessel, named after Japanese expert Masaki Nakamura, was launched at a shipyard in Niigata, Japan, on October 29. The project, valued at 2,927 million Japanese yen, aims to support Mauritania's efforts to assess and manage its marine resources. The vessel will replace outdated research ships currently used by the institute.
The research vessel measures 43.5 meters in length and has a gross tonnage of 311 tons. It is equipped with advanced equipment, including acoustic survey instruments, environmental monitoring systems, and laboratories for sample analysis. The vessel's engine has a power output of 1,400 horsepower, enabling it to conduct research in various marine environments. The project is financed through a non-repayable grant from Japan's Agency for International Cooperation (JICA).
The vessel is named after Masaki Nakamura, a Japanese expert who introduced Japanese squid-fishing technology to Mauritania between 1978 and 1985. This technology has become a cornerstone of Mauritania's fishing industry, providing around 40,000 jobs. Mauritania exports approximately 12,000 tons of squid to Japan annually, accounting for about 40% of Japan's squid imports.
The research vessel is expected to play a crucial role in assessing and managing Mauritania's marine resources. The institute, under the Ministry of Fisheries, will use the vessel to conduct research on fish stocks, monitor the marine environment, and develop sustainable fishing practices. The project is part of a broader effort to strengthen cooperation between Japan and Mauritania in the field of fisheries and oceanography.
The grant from JICA is part of a larger agreement between Japan and Mauritania to support the development of Mauritania's fisheries sector. The project is expected to contribute to the growth of Mauritania's economy and improve the livelihoods of communities dependent on fishing. The vessel is expected to arrive in Mauritanian waters and begin operations in the near future.
The launch of the research vessel marks a significant milestone in the cooperation between Japan and Mauritania. The two countries have a long history of collaboration in the field of fisheries, and this project is expected to further strengthen their ties. The research vessel will provide valuable insights into Mauritania's marine resources, enabling the country to make informed decisions about its fisheries sector.
Key points
- The research vessel was funded by Japan through a $18.5 million non-repayable grant from JICA.
- The vessel is equipped with advanced equipment, including acoustic survey instruments and environmental monitoring systems.
- The vessel will play a crucial role in assessing and managing Mauritania's marine resources, supporting the country's fisheries sector.
