Bahrain labour fund supports more local fishermen

Tamkeen is the Kingdom of Bahrain’s labour fund, launched in 2006 as part of the country’s national reform initiatives. In 2009, it set up the Bahraini Fishermen Support Scheme to help modernise local fishing methods. Recently, it announced that it would extend its support to some 1,000 Bahraini fishermen, according to the TradeArabia News Service. This brings its grants to a total of 2,100 fishers.

The programme is said to subsidise nearly 80% of the cost to upgrade a fisherman’s machines, tools and onboard equipment. It offers a maximum grant of BD3,000 (US$7.920) for boat owners and BD 5,000 ($13,262) for dhow (a local fishing vessel) owners. To qualify, fishermen have to have a valid license from the Agriculture and Marine Resources Affairs, and apply at Ebdaa Bank’s Budaiya branch. Those qualified for the scheme are allowed to re-apply for the programme after two years.

“The fisheries industry is a critical element when it comes to the food security of the kingdom, and is among the earliest professions in Bahrain,” Mohammed Bucheery, Tamkeen acting VP for Private Sector Support, told the news service.

“Working with our stakeholders, Tamkeen created this scheme to enable Bahraini fishermen to adapt more modern and effective methods which will make their business more prosperous and sustainable and contribute to national economic growth,” he added.

Related link: Bahrain’s fishing industry