Tuvalu Fisheries Department Engages in Innovative Communications Training

In a dynamic initiative aimed at bolstering sustainable fishing practices, the Coastal Fisheries team of Tuvalu embarked on a transformative journey during a specialized training session held from 12th to 15th March. Led by industry experts Steve Menzies of Flinch Marketing and Hugo Nguyen from the Pacific Community (SPC), this workshop delved into the realm of community communications campaigns with fervor and purpose.

The training, a collaborative effort involving staff from the Tuvalu Fisheries Department, Community Fisheries Officers, Tuvalu Media representatives, the Met Service, the Trade Department, TUCAN and various NGOs, was a strategic response to the escalating challenges posed by climate change and burgeoning population pressures. The urgent call to curb unsustainable fishing practices, such as targeting undersized fish and endangered species, resonated profoundly throughout the sessions.

With a keen focus on fostering engagement and igniting change at the grassroots level, the training encompassed a spectrum of enriching modules. From strategic planning to audience research, from crafting compelling campaigns to harnessing the power of smartphone content creation, every facet of effective communication was meticulously explored. Techniques for impactful interviewing, graphic design essentials using Canva, and direct support measures formed integral components of the immersive learning experience.

For the Coastal Fisheries team, deeply entrenched in their commitment to enhancing coastal resource management, this training served as a catalyst for innovative approaches. It provided a roadmap for weaving communities into the fabric of campaign design, execution, and evaluation. Emphasizing the adoption of sustainable practices, such as employing correct net mesh sizes, the team emerged invigorated and armed with newfound insights.

Steve Menzies, Director of Strategic Communications & Behavior Change at Flinch Marketing, expressed optimism about the transformative potential of the strategies discussed. Drawing parallels with successful interventions in realms like road safety, tobacco control, and family planning, Menzies underscored the adaptability and efficacy of communication-driven behavior change.

The sentiment was echoed by Matapepe Sikitia, a Community Fisheries Officer from Niutao, who hailed the workshop as a pivotal learning experience. “A big thanks to Steve Menzies and Hugo for delivering such an important workshop,” remarked Sikitia, reflecting the collective sentiment of enriched knowledge and empowerment among participants.

As the Fisheries team embarks on a journey fuelled by creativity and community collaboration, the ripples of this training are poised to resonate across the azure waters of Tuvalu, fostering a sustainable legacy for generations to come. With Flinch Marketing spearheading communication initiatives alongside

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST: Technical Support Updating Tuvalu’s Fisheries Legislation

The Tuvalu Fisheries Department has received an advance financing from the World Bank/International Development Association (WB/IDA) for the Tuvalu Pacific Islands Regional Oceanscape Program for Economic Resilience (PROPER), and intends to apply part of the proceeds for consulting services.

The consulting services (“the Services”) include an Individual Consultant to advise on updating the main legal instrument for fisheries management and development, the Marine Resources Act (MRA) of 2006, as well as the subsidiary regulations made under this Act and including new regulations where appropriate. The duration of the assignment is to provide services over a period of 6 months. The key outcome expected is a draft of a complete new Marine Resources Act and suite of accompanying regulations that has been developed in close consultation with the authorities in Tuvalu and meets national requirements as well as fully complying with Tuvalu’s international obligations as a coastal and flag state. A lump-sum contract will be signed with the successful consultant with payment against deliverables.

The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment can be found at the following website: https://mega.nz/file/YdF1nCAT#nP8zj_V4NCOicyKVL3Hd9f-DwcSO6Q1AWWmMHOaICHI

The Tuvalu Fisheries Department now invites eligible individuals (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services (attach curriculum vitae with description of experience in similar assignments, similar conditions, etc.). Firms’ staff may express interest through the employing firm for the assignment and, under such situation, only the experience and qualifications of individuals shall be considered in the selection process.

The criteria for selecting the Consultant are:

1. Essential Requirements:
• A post-graduate qualification in Law;
• At least 10 years’ experience in the legal field, including experience of drafting national legislation;
• A thorough understanding of the international and regional frameworks for management of fisheries in the Pacific Islands region;
• Good communication skills in English including the ability to explain legal issues in simple terms

2. Desirable Requirements:

• Experience of drafting fisheries legislation for Pacific Island countries with the Westminster system of government.
• Previous work experience in Tuvalu.

The attention of interested Consultants (including firms) is drawn to paragraph 3.14, 3.16 and 3.17 of the World Bank’s Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers 2020 (“the Regulations”), setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest.

Further information can be obtained at the address below.

Expressions of interest must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by e-mail) by 22 March, 2024.

Tuvalu Fisheries Department (TFD)
Attn: Mr. Samuelu Telii; Project Coordinator
Alapi, Funafuti,
Tuvalu
Tel: +688 20348
E-mail: samuelut@tuvalufisheries.tv OR propertuv@gmail.com

IKASAVEA Training Empowers Outer Island Data Collectors and Fisheries Officers for Enhanced Data Collection

In a significant step towards advancing fisheries data collection practices, a comprehensive IKASAVEA application training was conducted over a two-week period in the Tuvalu Fisheries Conference Room. The training, facilitated by FAME-SPC Officers Sebastian and Hannah, accompanied by the Coastal Consultant, Aimee, catered to Outer Island Data Collectors, Community Fisheries Officers, and Fisheries Officers.

The primary objective of the training was to enhance the quality and efficiency of fisheries data collection, encompassing both fish and invertebrates. Participants were exposed to a meticulously crafted curriculum comprising theory sessions and practical exercises, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of the IKASAVEA application.

The Tuvalu Fisheries Conference Room served as the central venue for knowledge dissemination and skill development during this intensive program. Sessions were strategically designed to equip participants with the necessary insights into utilizing the IKASAVEA application effectively, with a focus on improving data accuracy and collection methodologies.

A notable aspect of the training involved practical sessions conducted at various landing sites, providing participants with hands-on experience in real-world scenarios. This approach not only reinforced theoretical concepts but also facilitated the application of acquired knowledge in practical field situations.

Hannah, one of the lead facilitators, emphasized the critical role of precise data collection in effective fisheries management. “Good data collection is paramount for informed decision-making and sustainable fisheries management. The skills acquired during this training will undoubtedly contribute to elevating the standards of data collected in our fisheries,” she stated.

The initiative received generous sponsorship from the Pacific European Union Marine Partnership (PEUMP), underscoring their commitment to promoting best practices in fisheries management within the region. This collaboration enabled the seamless execution of the training program, providing participants with access to cutting-edge tools and methodologies.

As the training concluded, participants expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to enhance their skills and contribute to the enhancement of fisheries data collection practices in Tuvalu. The successful completion of this program signifies a significant stride towards aligning Tuvalu with global standards in fisheries data management and sustainability.

Request for Quotation: Equipment for Transshipment Vessel Inspections

You are invited to submit your price quotation for the Supply of Equipment for Transshipment Vessel Inspections (Component 2).

The Government of Tuvalu has received a Grant from the World Bank towards the cost of the Tuvalu Pacific Regional Oceanscape Program for Economic Resilience (PROPER) and intends to apply the proceeds of this grant to eligible payments under the contract for which this Request for Quotation is issued.

You must quote for all (100%) the items under this Invitation.

You shall submit by e-mail the Price Quotation with the Form of Quotation in accordance with the requirements specified in paragraph (9) below and addressed to:

Name: Samuelu Telii
Title: Director of Tuvalu PROPER
Project: Tuvalu Pacific Regional Oceanscape Program for Economic Resilience
Email Address: samuelut@tuvalufisheries.tv OR propertuv@gmail.com

Where forms are required to be signed, scanned copies of the signed forms should be attached in the email.

Your quotation in English language should be accompanied by adequate technical documentation and catalogue(s), or pertinent information for each quoted item.

The deadline for receipt of your quotation(s) by the Purchaser at the address indicated in Paragraph 4 is: 14 March, 2024, before close of business at 4:00pm TUVALU time

The evaluation of the price quotations will be conducted through procedures for RFQ as set out in the World Bank’s Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers, November 2020, which can be accessed from the World Bank website Procurement-Regulations.pdf (worldbank.org)
Quotations by electronic means are acceptable.

Your quotation should be submitted as per the following instructions and in accordance with the attached Contract. The attached Terms and Conditions of Supply is an integral part of the Contract. Incomplete or partial Quotations not filled out according to the instructions may be rejected. Alternative quotations/options are not allowed.

Your quotation should include the following:

a. Completed and signed Form of Quotation (Attachment 1); and

b. Completed and signed Terms and Conditions of Supply (Attachment 3); and

c. Completed and signed Compliance Statement (Attachment 4) demonstrating substantial responsiveness of the goods offered to the technical specification required, along with any technical documentation and/or catalogues of proposed products;

d. Priced and signed Bill of Quantities (Attachment 5 – Excel file). The prices should be quoted for delivery CIP Funafuti for imported goods according to INCOTERMS, 2020. Prices may be quoted in any single freely convertible currency. Prices should not include custom duties, excise-duty, and custom procedures tax in the Republic of Tuvalu. Prices quoted shall be fixed and not subject to any adjustment during contract performance.

2. EVALUATION OF QUOTATIONS:

Offers determined to be substantially responsive to the technical specifications will be evaluated by comparing the evaluated price.

The Purchaser will determine for each item the evaluated price, by adjusting the price quotation by making any correction for any arithmetical errors as follows:

i. Where there is a discrepancy between amounts in figures and in words, the amount in words will govern.
ii. Where is a discrepancy between the unit rate and the line item total resulting from multiplying the unit rate by the quantity, the unit rates as quoted will govern.
iii. If a Supplier refuses to accept the correction, his quotation will be rejected.

Prices quoted will be evaluated for all items together and the contract awarded to the bidder offering the lowest evaluated total price of all items.

For comparison of evaluated prices, the total evaluated price for all items will be converted to Australian Dollars at the selling rate of exchange prevailing on the deadline date for submission of quotations as issued by the ANZ bank.

3. AWARD OF CONTRACT:

A Contract will be awarded to the bidder offering the lowest evaluated price for all items, and which technically compliant with the required specifications. The successful participant will sign a Contract as per attached Form of Contract and Terms and Conditions of Supply.

4. VALIDITY OF THE OFFER:

Your quotation(s) should be valid for a period of sixty [60] days from the deadline for receipt of quotation(s) indicated in Paragraph 6 of this Request for Quotation.

Further information can be obtained from:
Name: Reena Mataio
Title: Procurement Officer
Project: Tuvalu Pacific Regional Oceanscape Program for Economic Resilience
Email Address: reenam@tuvalufisheries.tv OR propertuv@gmail.com

The Bidder is expected to examine all instructions, forms, terms, and specifications in the Request for Quotation. Failure to furnish all information or documentation required by the Request for Quotation may result in the rejection of the quotation.

A prospective bidder requiring any clarification of the Request for Quotation shall contact the Purchaser in writing (email) at the Purchaser’s address specified in the Paragraph 4.9. The Purchaser will notify all invited bidders of any request for clarification and the response, provided that any such request is received no later than two (2) calendar days prior to the deadline for receiving of quotes.

At any time prior to the deadline for receiving of quotes, the Purchaser may amend the Request for Quotation by issuing an addendum. Any addendum issued shall be part of the Request for Quotation and shall be communicated in writing to all who have obtained the Request for Quotation directly from the Purchaser.

The bidder shall bear all costs associated with the preparation and submission of its quote, and the Purchaser shall not be responsible or liable for those costs, regardless of the conduct or outcome of the bidding process.

The Purchaser reserves the right to accept or reject any quote, and to annul the bidding process and reject all quotes at any time prior to contract award, without thereby incurring any liability to bidders.
At the time the Contract is awarded, the Purchaser reserves the right to increase or decrease the quantity of goods, provided this does not exceed fifteen (15) percentage per item, and without any change in the unit prices or other terms and conditions of the quote and the Request for Quotation.

Please confirm by e-mail the receipt of this invitation and whether or not you will submit the price quotation(s).

Request for Quotation: Microscopes

You are invited to submit your price quotation for the Supply of Microscopes (Component 3).

The Government of Tuvalu has received a Grant from the World Bank towards the cost of the Tuvalu Pacific Regional Oceanscape Program for Economic Resilience (PROPER) and intends to apply the proceeds of this grant to eligible payments under the contract for which this Request for Quotation is issued.

You must quote for all (100%) the items under this Invitation.

You shall submit by e-mail the Price Quotation with the Form of Quotation by the requirements specified in paragraph (9) below and addressed to:

Name: Samuelu Telii
Title: Project Coordinator
Project: Tuvalu Pacific Regional Oceanscape Program for Economic Resilience
Email Address: samuelut@tuvalufisheries.tv OR propertuv@gmail.com

Where forms are required to be signed, scanned copies of the signed forms should be attached to the email.

Your quotation in English language should be accompanied by adequate technical documentation and catalogue(s), or pertinent information for each quoted item.

The deadline for receipt of your quotation(s) by the Purchaser at the address indicated in Paragraph 4 is 21 March 2024, before close of business at 4:00 pm TUVALU time.
The evaluation of the price quotations will be conducted through procedures for RFQ as set out in the World Bank’s Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers, November 2020, which can be accessed from the World Bank website Procurement-Regulations.pdf (worldbank.org)

Quotations by electronic means are acceptable.

Your quotation should be submitted as per the following instructions and in accordance with the attached Contract. The attached Terms and Conditions of Supply is an integral part of the Contract. Incomplete or partial Quotations not filled out according to the instructions may be rejected. Alternative quotations/options are not allowed.

Your quotation should include the following:

a. Completed and signed Form of Quotation (Attachment 1); and

b. Completed and signed Terms and Conditions of Supply (Attachment 3); and

c. Completed and signed Compliance Statement (Attachment 4) demonstrating substantial responsiveness of the goods offered to the technical specification required, along with any technical documentation and/or catalogues of proposed products;

d. Priced and signed Bill of Quantities (Attachment 5 – Excel file). The prices should be quoted for delivery CIP Funafuti for imported goods according to INCOTERMS, 2020. Prices may be quoted in any single freely convertible currency. Prices should not include custom duties, excise duty, and customs procedures tax in the Republic of Tuvalu. Prices quoted shall be fixed and not subject to any adjustment during contract performance.

2. EVALUATION OF QUOTATIONS:
Offers determined to be substantially responsive to the technical specifications will be evaluated by comparing the evaluated price.

The Purchaser will determine for each item the evaluated price, by adjusting the price quotation by making any correction for any arithmetical errors as follows:

i. Where there is a discrepancy between amounts in figures and in words, the amount in words will govern.
ii. Where there is a discrepancy between the unit rate and the line item total resulting from multiplying the unit rate by the quantity, the unit rates as quoted will govern.
iii. If a Supplier refuses to accept the correction, his quotation will be rejected.

Prices quoted will be evaluated for all items together and the contract awarded to the bidder offering the lowest evaluated total price of all items.

For comparison of evaluated prices, the total evaluated price for all items will be converted to Australian Dollars at the selling rate of exchange prevailing on the deadline date for submission of quotations as issued by the ANZ bank.

3. AWARD OF CONTRACT:

A Contract will be awarded to the bidder offering the lowest evaluated price for all items, and which is technically compliant with the required specifications. The successful participant will sign a Contract as per the attached Form of Contract and Terms and Conditions of Supply.

4. VALIDITY OF THE OFFER:

Your quotation(s) should be valid for a period of sixty [60] days from the deadline for receipt of quotation(s) indicated in Paragraph 6 of this Request for Quotation.

Further information can be obtained from:
Name: Reena Mataio
Title: Procurement Officer
Project: Tuvalu Pacific Regional Oceanscape Program for Economic Resilience
Email Address: reenam@tuvalufisheries.tv OR propertuv@gmail.com

The Bidder is expected to examine all instructions, forms, terms, and specifications in the Request for Quotation. Failure to furnish all information or documentation required by the Request for Quotation may result in the rejection of the quotation.

A prospective bidder requiring any clarification of the Request for Quotation shall contact the Purchaser in writing (email) at the Purchaser’s address specified in Paragraph 4.9. The Purchaser will notify all invited bidders of any request for clarification and the response, provided that any such request is received no later than two (2) calendar days prior to the deadline for receiving quotes.

At any time prior to the deadline for receiving of quotes, the Purchaser may amend the Request for Quotation by issuing an addendum. Any addendum issued shall be part of the Request for Quotation and shall be communicated in writing to all who have obtained the Request for Quotation directly from the Purchaser.

The bidder shall bear all costs associated with the preparation and submission of its quote, and the Purchaser shall not be responsible or liable for those costs, regardless of the conduct or outcome of the bidding process.

The Purchaser reserves the right to accept or reject any quote, and to annul the bidding process and reject all quotes at any time prior to contract award, without thereby incurring any liability to bidders.
At the time the Contract is awarded, the Purchaser reserves the right to increase or decrease the quantity of goods, provided this does not exceed fifteen (15) percentage per item, and without any change in the unit prices or other terms and conditions of the quote and the Request for Quotation.

Please confirm by e-mail the receipt of this invitation and whether or not you will submit the price quotation(s).

Request for Quotation: Safety Grab Bags and Equipment

You are invited to submit your price quotation for the Supply of Safety Grab Bags and Equipment (Component 2).

The Government of Tuvalu has received a Grant from the World Bank towards the cost of the Tuvalu Pacific Regional Oceanscape Program for Economic Resilience (PROPER) and intends to apply the proceeds of this grant to eligible payments under the contract for which this Request for Quotation is issued.

You must quote for all (100%) the items under this Invitation.

You shall submit by e-mail the Price Quotation with the Form of Quotation in accordance with the requirements specified in paragraph (9) below and addressed to:

Name: Samuelu Telii
Title: Project Coordinator
Project: Tuvalu Pacific Regional Oceanscape Program for Economic Resilience
Email Address: samuelut@tuvalufisheries.tv OR propertuv@gmail.com

Where forms are required to be signed, scanned copies of the signed forms should be attached in the email.

Your quotation in English language should be accompanied by adequate technical documentation and catalogue(s), or pertinent information for each quoted item.

The deadline for receipt of your quotation(s) by the Purchaser at the address indicated in Paragraph 4 is: 11 March, 2024 before close of business 4:00pm, Tuvalu time.
The evaluation of the price quotations will be conducted through procedures for RFQ as set out in the World Bank’s Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers, November 2020, which can be accessed from the World Bank website Procurement-Regulations.pdf (worldbank.org)
Quotations by electronic means are acceptable.

Your quotation should be submitted as per the following instructions and in accordance with the attached Contract. The attached Terms and Conditions of Supply is an integral part of the Contract. Incomplete or partial Quotations not filled out according to the instructions may be rejected. Alternative quotations/options are not allowed.

Your quotation should include the following:

a. Completed and signed Form of Quotation (Attachment 1); and

b. Completed and signed Terms and Conditions of Supply (Attachment 3); and

c. Completed and signed Compliance Statement (Attachment 4) demonstrating substantial responsiveness of the goods offered to the technical specification required, along with any technical documentation and/or catalogues of proposed products;

d. Priced and signed Bill of Quantities (Attachment 5 – Excel file). The prices should be quoted for delivery CIP Funafuti for imported goods according to INCOTERMS, 2020. Prices may be quoted in any single freely convertible currency. Prices should not include custom duties, excise-duty, and custom procedures tax in the Republic of Tuvalu. Prices quoted shall be fixed and not subject to any adjustment during contract performance.

2. EVALUATION OF QUOTATIONS:

Offers determined to be substantially responsive to the technical specifications will be evaluated by comparing the evaluated price.

The Purchaser will determine for each item the evaluated price, by adjusting the price quotation by making any correction for any arithmetical errors as follows:

i. Where there is a discrepancy between amounts in figures and in words, the amount in words will govern.
ii. Where is a discrepancy between the unit rate and the line item total resulting from multiplying the unit rate by the quantity, the unit rates as quoted will govern.
iii. If a Supplier refuses to accept the correction, his quotation will be rejected.
Prices quoted will be evaluated for all items together and the contract awarded to the bidder offering the lowest evaluated total price of all items.

For comparison of evaluated prices, the total evaluated price for all items will be converted to Australian Dollars at the selling rate of exchange prevailing on the deadline date for submission of quotations as issued by the ANZ bank.

3. AWARD OF CONTRACT:

A Contract will be awarded to the bidder offering the lowest evaluated price for all items, and which technically compliant with the required specifications. The successful participant will sign a Contract as per attached Form of Contract and Terms and Conditions of Supply.

4. VALIDITY OF THE OFFER:

Your quotation(s) should be valid for a period of sixty [60] days from the deadline for receipt of quotation(s) indicated in Paragraph 6 of this Request for Quotation.

Further information can be obtained from:
Name: Reena Mataio
Title: Procurement Officer
Project: Tuvalu Pacific Regional Oceanscape Program for Economic Resilience
Email Address: reenam@tuvalufisheries.tv OR propertuv@gmail.com

The Bidder is expected to examine all instructions, forms, terms, and specifications in the Request for Quotation. Failure to furnish all information or documentation required by the Request for Quotation may result in the rejection of the quotation.

A prospective bidder requiring any clarification of the Request for Quotation shall contact the Purchaser in writing (email) at the Purchaser’s address specified in the Paragraph 4.9. The Purchaser will notify all invited bidders of any request for clarification and the response, provided that any such request is received no later than two (2) calendar days prior to the deadline for receiving of quotes.

At any time prior to the deadline for receiving of quotes, the Purchaser may amend the Request for Quotation by issuing an addendum. Any addendum issued shall be part of the Request for Quotation and shall be communicated in writing to all who have obtained the Request for Quotation directly from the Purchaser.

The bidder shall bear all costs associated with the preparation and submission of its quote, and the Purchaser shall not be responsible or liable for those costs, regardless of the conduct or outcome of the bidding process.

The Purchaser reserves the right to accept or reject any quote, and to annul the bidding process and reject all quotes at any time prior to contract award, without thereby incurring any liability to bidders.

At the time the Contract is awarded, the Purchaser reserves the right to increase or decrease the quantity of goods, provided this does not exceed fifteen (15) percentage per item, and without any change in the unit prices or other terms and conditions of the quote and the Request for Quotation.

Please confirm by e-mail the receipt of this invitation and whether or not you will submit the price quotation(s).

Request for Quotation: Various ICT Equipment

You are invited to submit your price quotation for the Supply of Various ICT Equipment – Lot 2 & 3 (Component 1).

The Government of Tuvalu has received a Grant from the World Bank towards the cost of the Tuvalu Pacific Regional Oceanscape Program for Economic Resilience (PROPER) and intends to apply the proceeds of this grant to eligible payments under the contract for which this Request for Quotation is issued.

You must quote for all (100%) the items under this Invitation.

You shall submit by e-mail the Price Quotation with the Form of Quotation in accordance with the requirements specified in paragraph (9) below and addressed to:

Name: Samuelu Telii
Title: Project Coordinator
Project: Tuvalu Pacific Regional Oceanscape Program for Economic Resilience
Email Address: samuelut@tuvalufisheries.tv OR propertuv@gmail.com

Where forms are required to be signed, scanned copies of the signed forms should be attached in the email.

Your quotation in English language should be accompanied by adequate technical documentation and catalogue(s), or pertinent information for each quoted item.

The deadline for receipt of your quotation(s) by the Purchaser at the address indicated in Paragraph 4 is: 12 March, 2024 before close of business at 4pm, TUVALU time.

The evaluation of the price quotations will be conducted through procedures for RFQ as set out in the World Bank’s Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers, November 2020, which can be accessed from the World Bank website Procurement-Regulations.pdf (worldbank.org)
Quotations by electronic means are acceptable.

Your quotation should be submitted as per the following instructions and in accordance with the attached Contract. The attached Terms and Conditions of Supply is an integral part of the Contract. Incomplete or partial Quotations not filled out according to the instructions may be rejected. Alternative quotations/options are not allowed.

Your quotation should include the following:

a. Completed and signed Form of Quotation (Attachment 1); and

b. Completed and signed Terms and Conditions of Supply (Attachment 3); and

c. Completed and signed Compliance Statement (Attachment 4) demonstrating substantial responsiveness of the goods offered to the technical specification required, along with any technical documentation and/or catalogues of proposed products;

d. Priced and signed Bill of Quantities (Attachment 5 – Excel file). The prices should be quoted for delivery CIP Funafuti for imported goods according to INCOTERMS, 2020. Prices may be quoted in any single freely convertible currency. Prices should not include custom duties, excise-duty, and custom procedures tax in the Republic of Tuvalu. Prices quoted shall be fixed and not subject to any adjustment during contract performance.

2. EVALUATION OF QUOTATIONS:

Offers determined to be substantially responsive to the technical specifications will be evaluated by comparing the evaluated price.

The Purchaser will determine for each item the evaluated price, by adjusting the price quotation by making any correction for any arithmetical errors as follows:

i. Where there is a discrepancy between amounts in figures and in words, the amount in words will govern.
ii. Where is a discrepancy between the unit rate and the line item total resulting from multiplying the unit rate by the quantity, the unit rates as quoted will govern.
iii. If a Supplier refuses to accept the correction, his quotation will be rejected.

Prices quoted will be evaluated for all items together and the contract awarded to the bidder offering the lowest evaluated total price of all items.

For comparison of evaluated prices, the total evaluated price for all items will be converted to Australian Dollars at the selling rate of exchange prevailing on the deadline date for submission of quotations as issued by the ANZ bank.

3. AWARD OF CONTRACT:

A Contract will be awarded to the bidder offering the lowest evaluated price for all items, and which technically compliant with the required specifications. The successful participant will sign a Contract as per attached Form of Contract and Terms and Conditions of Supply.

4. VALIDITY OF THE OFFER:

Your quotation(s) should be valid for a period of sixty [60] days from the deadline for receipt of quotation(s) indicated in Paragraph 6 of this Request for Quotation.

Further information can be obtained from:
Name: Reena Mataio
Title: Procurement Officer
Project: Tuvalu Pacific Regional Oceanscape Program for Economic Resilience
Email Address: reenam@tuvalufisheries.tv OR propertuv@gmail.com

The Bidder is expected to examine all instructions, forms, terms, and specifications in the Request for Quotation. Failure to furnish all information or documentation required by the Request for Quotation may result in the rejection of the quotation.

A prospective bidder requiring any clarification of the Request for Quotation shall contact the Purchaser in writing (email) at the Purchaser’s address specified in the Paragraph 4.9. The Purchaser will notify all invited bidders of any request for clarification and the response, provided that any such request is received no later than two (2) calendar days prior to the deadline for receiving of quotes.

At any time prior to the deadline for receiving of quotes, the Purchaser may amend the Request for Quotation by issuing an addendum. Any addendum issued shall be part of the Request for Quotation and shall be communicated in writing to all who have obtained the Request for Quotation directly from the Purchaser.

The bidder shall bear all costs associated with the preparation and submission of its quote, and the Purchaser shall not be responsible or liable for those costs, regardless of the conduct or outcome of the bidding process.

The Purchaser reserves the right to accept or reject any quote, and to annul the bidding process and reject all quotes at any time prior to contract award, without thereby incurring any liability to bidders.

At the time the Contract is awarded, the Purchaser reserves the right to increase or decrease the quantity of goods, provided this does not exceed fifteen (15) percentage per item, and without any change in the unit prices or other terms and conditions of the quote and the Request for Quotation.

Please confirm by e-mail the receipt of this invitation and whether or not you will submit the price quotation(s).

Re Advertisement: Exciting Opportunity for Research Assistant in Tuvalu! Join the APN Funded Project on Marine Plastics and Indigenous Knowledge Integration!

This research project is a regional project funded by the Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research under the Collaborative Regional Research Programme. The project team involves several academics from USP as well as partners across the region.
The project addresses the important need to provide regionally-representative information on changes in fisheries and pollution exposure, to incorporate Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) of fisheries into management recommendations, and to build capacity and support conservation efforts. This project will take place in four geographically diverse PICTs – Fiji, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu – and has four distinct objectives: (i) build capacity in PICTs, (ii) establish a regional baseline for microplastics (MP) in reef-associated food fishes, (iii) document TEK around reef-associated food fishes and pollution using social science methodologies, and (iv) inform national and regional conservation efforts. Via the coproduction of research and knowledge with in-country partners, this project will provide a much-needed regional baseline of MP contamination in common food fishes (indicating risk to human health/nutrition), while the TEK will identify preferences and catch trends, and yield key biological information that can inform management tools addressing food security.

We are seeking a Research Assistant to be part of the Tuvalu component of the project, to play a key role in running workshops as well as data collection and analysis alongside the project team, as follows:
• Support the planning and conduction of workshops to train identified stakeholders.
• Collect and analyze microplastics from fish gastrointestinal tracts.
• Collect relevant data through interviews with local identified stakeholders.
• Translate interviews from Tuvaluan into English.
• Liaise with the different members of the project and local stakeholders from Governmental Departments and communities.

The Persons We Seek

Applicants for Research Assistant should meet the minimum following essential criteria;
1. Ideally the candidate would be currently enrolled in or have recently completed (within the last five years) a postgraduate degree in Environmental, Marine or Social Science, or Marine Management. However, applicants will be considered also if they have recently completed an undergraduate degree in any of the above, or similar, programs, and are not yet enrolled in a postgraduate degree.
2. Be willing to learn about documenting Traditional Ecological Knowledge.
3. Some knowledge of reef-associated fish and fisheries.
3. Be a citizen of Tuvalu and able to speak fluently in Tuvaluan.
4. Ability to communicate and liaise effectively with relevant stakeholders.
5. Experience in laboratory analysis (microplastics).
6. Time management skills.
7. Willingness to travel within Tuvalu.

Remuneration

Remuneration will be dependent on qualifications, according to the USP standard hourly rates ($9-12 FJD/h). Contract duration will be ca. 5 months on a part-time contract (20-25 h/week), with the position planned to start in March 2024. Travel and research costs are covered by the project.

How to Apply

Please send your application (which includes a cover letter, resume, certified copies of qualifications and three references) to Dr. Amanda Ford at amanda.ford@usp.ac.fj based at Marine Studies, Ext 32836 by February 16th 2024.

Request for Expressions of Interest: Recruiting Agents for Fishing Crew

Tuvalu Fisheries Department, on the instructions of the Cabinet, is seeking expressions of interest from Tuvaluan national companies to take on the role of agents to recruit Fishing Crew on Tuvalu flag purse seiners. There are at least 30 positions available for fishing crew for contracts of one year or more. If the initial placements are successful there may be more opportunities on foreign flag vessels.

Responsibilities:

The recruiting agents will be responsible, among other duties, for:

• Liaising with the Fisheries Department to understand the work required and identify Tuvaluans who may have been trained for these positions (purse seiner crew training at TMTI);
• Selecting suitably qualified and motivated Tuvaluan citizens to take up these opportunities;
• Ensuring that all selected persons are medically fit and able to handle the physical work required;
• Ensuring that each employee understands their terms of employment and signs a contract with the employer;
• Liaising with employers to arrange travel for employees to take up their duties and ensuring that they are fully briefed on travel arrangements, have all necessary documents and visas and depart on schedule;
• Maintaining contact with employees while they are overseas and bringing any issues to the attention of their employers and/or the Government of Tuvalu as appropriate;
• Receiving monthly remittance payments from the employer, and ensuring that these are credited immediately to the bank accounts of nominated dependents in Tuvalu;
• Facilitating the repatriation of employees at the end of their assignments, or earlier in the event of an emergency.

Requirements:

Essential:

Recruitment agents must:

i. have a registered company which is wholly owned by one or more Tuvaluan nationals – please provide a Company Registration certificate;

ii. demonstrate, by providing a bank statement or other evidence, that they have the necessary financial resources to run the company – please provide a bank statement or bank letter showing that you have at least $10,000 in your account or can obtain a loan of this amount to start the business;

iii. have basic office facilities including good international communications – please provide a photograph of the building or room you will use as an office;

iv. have experience of recruiting staff – please explain in your EOI your experience of staff recruitment (e.g. ‘I have run my own company for 5 years and recruited the 10 staff that work for me’.);

v. have a good command of English.

Desirable:

vi. experience of recruiting and placing seamen on foreign ships – please explain if you have this experience and how you got it (e.g. “I worked for a crewing agency in Tarawa for four years and we placed 120 crew on foreign vessels.”;
vii. understanding of, and contacts with, Korean and/or Taiwanese tuna fishing companies;
viii. knowledge of employment law and regulations relevant to this area.

Expressions of Interest

If you are interested in this opportunity, please submit an Expression of Interest in writing to the acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Fisheries and Trade, by 23rd February. Your EOI should explain how you and your company meets the requirements listed above and provide the supporting documents mentioned above. You should also provide an indication of the recruitment charges that you propose to levy on the employer – either as a dollar amount or as a % of crew costs. Any charges or deductions from employees in exchange for arranging their employment are not permitted.

Tuvalu leads the way in ensuring safe and fair fishing: A GLOBAL CALL TO ACTION

In a celebration of commitment to the rights and welfare of fishing crews, Tuvalu stole the spotlight at the WCPFC 20 conference in Rarotonga. Acknowledging the commendable efforts of the Commission, Tuvalu stands shoulder to shoulder with fellow members, voicing support and sharing strides taken to safeguard the rights of those toiling in its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

Tuvalu proudly announced its proactive measures during the conference, showcasing a groundbreaking initiative implemented in 2020. With the steadfast support of the FFA, Tuvalu adopted a national regulation setting minimum labor and human rights standards for fishing vessels operating in its waters. This milestone makes Tuvalu one of the pioneering Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in the WCPO region under the FFA.

The global pandemic posed challenges, but Tuvalu’s government proved resilient. Plans were laid out for regular meetings with stakeholders to implement and enforce the law, slated to begin on January 1, 2024.

Collaboration has been key for Tuvalu. Consultations with the FFA, the International Labour Organization (ILO), other UN agencies, the Commission, and fishing partner companies have been ongoing. Recently, funds from the government of New Zealand were utilized for comprehensive training programs for Tuvalu crews in Funafuti.

Tuvalu’s gratitude extends beyond its borders. There is acknowledgment of potential assistance from funds such as the Canada Indo-Pacific Programme to further support these vital regulations. Tuvalu also tips its hat to the faculty staff at ANCORS, University of Wollongong, for their indirect yet impactful work, providing valuable guidance and recommendations.

As a small country with a population just over 11,000, Tuvalu understands the intrinsic value of its people, holding them close to its heart. Standing before the commission, Tuvalu issues a call to all Coastal States to unite in mutual support, ensuring that work in the fishing industry is safe, dignified, and fulfilling for every fisher on every vessel.

Tuvalu’s story is one of resilience, collaboration, and a passionate commitment to a brighter and safer future for all who contribute to the lifeblood of the oceans.