By Amos Harris
Information Minister Jerolinmek M. Piah has called on Liberian journalists to broaden their news coverage by giving greater attention to the country’s fisheries sector, describing it as a vital pillar of economic growth, food security, employment, and sustainable national development.
Speaking Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at the launch of the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA) Open Media House at the Authority’s headquarters on Bushrod Island
Minister Piah urged the media to move beyond its traditional focus on politics and sports and increase reporting on fisheries and ocean-related issues.
The Information Minister observed that while political developments and sporting events often dominate headlines, the fisheries sector continues to receive limited media attention despite its enormous contribution to Liberia’s economy and its potential to attract investment.
He described the media as a strategic partner in unlocking the country’s marine resources, emphasizing that accurate, consistent, and informed reporting can increase public awareness while encouraging the sustainable management of Liberia’s fisheries.
Minister Piah outlined eight priority areas where journalists can play a significant role, including promoting marine conservation, sustainable fishing practices, and public education on the economic opportunities available within the fisheries industry.
He also stressed the importance of investigative journalism in exposing illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, marine pollution, and the destruction of coastal habitats.
According to him, such reporting can complement government efforts to safeguard Liberia’s marine resources and hold violators accountable.
The Minister said increased media attention to fisheries would also strengthen national food security by educating citizens about government initiatives aimed at improving fish production, preservation, processing, and distribution throughout the country.
Piah further encouraged journalists to produce balanced and factual reports highlighting investment opportunities in fisheries, aquaculture, marine tourism, maritime transport, and other ocean-based industries capable of generating employment and attracting both local and foreign investors.
He also called for sustained media coverage of climate change and its impact on Liberia’s coastal communities, including coastal erosion, rising sea levels, and changing fish migration patterns that continue to threaten livelihoods.
The Information Minister urged journalists to amplify the voices of fishermen, fish processors, fishmongers, and other coastal residents whose livelihoods depend on the ocean, noting that their experiences should inform public policy and national development planning.
According to Minister Piah, stronger collaboration between the media and the fisheries sector is essential to advancing Liberia’s broader economic agenda.
He expressed confidence that increased engagement between journalists and NaFAA would help build a vibrant, sustainable, and well-managed fisheries industry capable of creating jobs and boosting the national economic.
Minister Piah said he expects the facility to serve as a platform for effective communication, coordination, and collaboration between the Authority and the Liberian media while promoting greater public understanding and appreciation of the country’s fisheries sector.
