HAFA Adai yan Tirow Honorable Governor Apatang!
Recognizing the economic pressures on our community and the importance of food security, I write to request your support in establishing a start-up incentive program for our fishermen. This program would provide funding for essential resources such as fishing gear, supplies, and/ or boats, enabling our fishermen to sustain the demand for seafood and contribute more fully to our local food supply.
The CNMI is blessed with many talented fishermen who are eager to provide for their families and community. Unfortunately, many do not have the necessary equipment or financial backing to expand their operations. By empowering them with start-up support, we can help reduce our reliance on imported seafood while fostering a stronger, more resilient local economy.
I also believe this initiative could be developed in partnership with the Commonwealth Economic Development Authority. By working together, we can create innovative funding models-whether through grants, low-interest loans, or cooperative ventures-that would maximize the. use of our resources while ensuring long-term sustainability. As we all recognize, we cannot rely solely on tourism or federal funding to carry our economy forward. We must be creative and forward-thinking, leveraging the treasures we already possess — our ocean and our land —to build opportunities for our people.
Additionally, nonprofit organizations such as Tasi to Table and the Saipan Fishermen Association are playing a vital role in educating our youth about fishing traditions passed down from our ancestors. Their programs not only preserve our cultural heritage but also engage young people in positive activities that steer them away from criminal behavior. Strengthening these community-driven efforts through government support will further reinforce the cultural, economic, and social benefits of fishing for our islands.
Governor, your leadership in advancing this initiative would strengthen food security, preserve our culture, and provide economic opportunities for generations to come. I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you to discuss how we can move this forward in collaboration with CEDA, our fishermen, and our nonprofit partners.
Thank you for your consideration and continued commitment to the people of the Commonwealth.
Sincerely,
RAMON “RB” CAMACHO
Mayor of Saipan
