By: Andrew B Weah
0770637216/0886429103
andrewbweah@gmail.com
Monrovia, Liberia — President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. has officially broken ground for the construction of a state-of-the-art fisheries complex at the Mesurado Pier, marking a major milestone in Liberia’s drive to modernize its fisheries and aquaculture sector.
The groundbreaking ceremony, attended by government officials, development partners, and key stakeholders, was widely described as a pivotal step toward unlocking the country’s vast fisheries potential. The project, funded under the Liberia Sustainable Management of Fisheries Project with support from the World Bank, underscores the government’s commitment to sustainable development and economic transformation.
Speaking at the ceremony, on behalf of President Boakai, the Minister of State for Presidential Affairs , Steve Stevequoh emphasized the importance of investing in modern infrastructure to spur national growth.
“By investing in modern infrastructure, we are fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and inclusive growth that uplifts families and strengthens communities across Liberia,” Stevequoh stated.
Representing the Liberian Ambassador-at-Large, Charles Snetter stressed the urgent need for responsible management of marine and inland water resources. He called for stronger legislation to protect rivers and support aquaculture development.
“It is imperative that as we promote and encourage investors in this sector, we also put in place laws that protect our rivers, which are crucial to our aquaculture future,” Snetter noted.
For his part, Director General of the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority, J. Cyrus Saygbe, described the project as a symbol of strong collaboration between Liberia and its international partners.
“This moment is not simply about laying bricks and pouring concrete—it is about laying the foundation for national progress,” Saygbe declared.
He added that the initiative aligns with Liberia’s Ten-Year Strategic Plan, aiming to modernize, professionalize, and sustainably expand the fisheries and aquaculture sector.
The fisheries complex, designed by AEP Consultants Inc., will serve as a modern operational hub for sector coordination, policy implementation, and capacity building.
Transforming Livelihoods and Industry Value Chain
The project is expected to significantly improve the livelihoods of thousands of Liberian fishermen and women by enhancing infrastructure, boosting productivity, and expanding market access.
Georgia Wallace, Country Manager of the World Bank, disclosed that the initiative, which began on September 1, 2021, carries a total budget envelope of US$40 million and is structured around four key components:
• Improving Management and Governance of Fisheries:
Strengthening institutional frameworks, modernizing policies, and deploying digital systems for monitoring, licensing, and surveillance. A key highlight is the construction of the NaFAA Fisheries Complex to support coordinated sector reforms.
• Enhancing Value Addition of Fish Products:
Development of an industrial fishing port and artisanal landing site at Mesurado Pier, complete with cold storage, processing facilities, fish markets, and maintenance workshops to reduce post-harvest losses and improve quality.
• Support to Aquaculture Development:
Rehabilitation of the Klay hatchery into a national center of excellence, featuring laboratories for fish feed development, disease control, and water quality testing.
• Project Management and Oversight:
Ensuring effective coordination, transparency, and accountability in project implementation.
Additionally, the project will support human capacity development through training programs, academic partnerships, and the establishment of a fisheries program at the University of Liberia to build a skilled workforce for the future.
A Vision for Sustainable Growth
As construction begins, the fisheries complex represents more than infrastructure—it signals a bold vision for a resilient and inclusive blue economy. Stakeholders say the initiative will not only transform the sector physically but also create opportunities for sustainable resource management, private sector investment, and shared national prosperity.
With continued collaboration between the Government of Liberia and its partners, the country is poised to harness its aquatic resources more effectively—ensuring that communities thrive while safeguarding the environment for future generations.
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