IPNEWS : Honorable Emma Metieh Glassco, the highly accomplished and visionary Director General of the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA), deserves to be celebrated for her unwavering commitment to transforming Liberia’s fisheries sector. Her relentless efforts have brought immense pride and economic opportunities to the nation, elevating Liberia’s global standing in sustainable fisheries management.
Since assuming leadership at NaFAA, Hon. Glassco has positioned Liberia as a leader in fisheries governance, attracting international partnerships and funding that have revitalized the industry. The US$40 million Liberia Sustainable Management of Fisheries Project (LSMFP), which she diligently spearheaded, has provided economic opportunities for over 11,000 fishermen and women, enhanced value addition for exports, and significantly boosted government revenue.
Despite these unparalleled achievements, detractors—motivated by jealousy and political maneuvering—have sought to discredit her work. A recent letter from the World Bank’s Liberia Country Office, dated August 16, 2024, raised concerns about alleged inaccuracies in a Project Progress Report. While the letter emphasizes the Bank’s commitment to ensuring proper fund usage, there is no evidence implicating Hon. Glassco in any wrongdoing. In fact, documents in our possession clearly indicate that all financial decisions under her leadership adhered strictly to established guidelines.
Hon. Glassco has consistently demonstrated a commitment to transparency and accountability, reinforcing Liberia’s adherence to international standards. She welcomed the World Bank’s continued engagement and emphasized NaFAA’s dedication to ensuring the proper implementation of development projects that benefit the nation.
“The National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority has always operated with integrity, efficiency, and transparency,” Hon. Glassco stated. “Our focus remains on developing Liberia’s fisheries industry and empowering our hardworking fishing communities.”
Hon. Glassco’s contributions have earned Liberia international recognition, securing critical funding and establishing strategic partnerships that have transformed local fisheries. Her leadership has not only enhanced revenue generation but also created employment and improved the livelihoods of thousands of fishermen and women. Under her stewardship, Liberia’s fisheries sector has witnessed unprecedented growth, unlocking new opportunities for economic empowerment and sustainability.
The unwarranted attacks against her threaten to undo the significant progress she has achieved. Her passion and dedication have propelled Liberia’s fisheries onto the global stage, inspiring confidence in international investors and strengthening the country’s reputation as a model for sustainable resource management. Any attempt to undermine her leadership risks jeopardizing these gains, weakening Liberia’s standing in the global fisheries sector, and negatively impacting countless local fishing communities.
Liberia must not allow envy and political sabotage to overshadow the remarkable achievements of Hon. Emma Glassco. She has worked tirelessly to position the country as a beacon of progress in fisheries management, and her contributions should be acknowledged and appreciated. Instead of tearing down a leader who has brought so much pride and opportunity to the nation, it is time to celebrate her accomplishments and support the continued growth of the sector she has so passionately transformed.
