Building on on-going initiatives supporting the implementation of co-management in fisheries resource protection under the 2017 Fisheries Law, from 18–19 December 2025, the Centre for Marinelife Conservation and Community Development (MCD), in coordination with the Da Nang Sub-Department of Seas, Islands and Fisheries and the People’s Committee of Tam Xuan Commune, organized a training program on co-management and sustainable livelihood planning in Tam Xuan Commune, Da Nang. The activity aimed to strengthen the capacity of community groups and enhance coordination and planning skills for implementing co-management in fisheries resource protection in the Ba Dau Reef marine area.  At the same time, it promoted sustainable livelihood planning as pathway to reduce destructive fishing practices (including bottom trawling) and to conserve coral reef ecosystems.

Designed with participatory approaches and practical tools, the training encouraged hands-on application of knowledge and skills related to co-management of fisheries resource protection and sustainable fishing practices.  Key sessions focused on: (i) reviewing the co-management plan including the roles, responsibilities, and coordination mechanisms of community groups and relevant stakeholders; (ii) analyzing advantages and challenges encountered during implementation; and (iii) identifying sustainable livelihood solutions that ensure a balance between conservation objectives and fisheries resource development in line with the 2017 Fisheries Law and related regulations.

Photo: Ms. Than Thi Hien, Vice Director of MCD, is delivering the opening remarks and introducing the training program

The training was attended by 25 representatives of community groups (including the core group) and five representatives of relevant stakeholders, and delivered positive outcomes. Pre- and post-training assessments demonstrated a clear improvement in participants’ understanding of co-management for fisheries resource protection. Prior to the training, only 25% of participants reported a clear understanding of co-management, while this figure increased to 80% following the training. In addition, participants’ facilitation and presentation skills were significantly enhanced, with 75% reporting increased confidence after the training, compared to 21% prior to participation. Notably, 85% of participants indicated confidence in developing action plans for sustainable livelihood development. These results highlighted the effectiveness of the training program in strengthening community capacity and supporting the implementation of co-management initiatives closely linked to local livelihoods.

Photo: Representatives of the community group discussing the co-management implementation plan

At the end of training, the community group developed draft action plans and consulted with relevant stakeholders on the implementation of a number of co-management activities for fisheries resource protection in the Ba Dau Reef marine area, Tam Xuan Commune. In parallel, the group proposed sustainable livelihood plans linked to the protection of coral reef ecosystems and fisheries resources, including the community-based tourism development. This collaborative process strengthened better coordination and engagement among the community group, local authorities, and relevant stakeholders, creating a solid foundation for the implementation of upcoming initiatives and on-the-ground activities on sustainable small-scale fisheries.

Photo: Representatives of the Tam Xuan Commune People’s Committee and relevant stakeholders are attending and closing the training program

The activity was implemented under the Service Contract titled “Enhancing local capacity on the aquatic resources protection and sustainable small scale fisheries management in Quang Nam province (now Da Nang city), Vietnam”.