National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA) has taken a major step toward strengthening its sector with the official groundbreaking of a modern fisheries complex, a project expected to improve governance, boost productivity, and support thousands of livelihoods. The facility, funded by the World Bank under the Liberia Sustainable Management of Fisheries Project and designed by AEP Consultants Inc., is being described by stakeholders as a transformative investment in one of the country’s most promising economic sectors.
Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony, NaFAA Director General J. Cyrus Saygbe Sremphasized that the project goes beyond infrastructure, representing a long-term commitment to national development and the empowerment of Liberians who depend on the fisheries value chain.
“This is not just about construction; it is about building the foundation for progress and strengthening a sector that sustains thousands of families across the country,” Sagbye noted. Once completed, the complex will serve as a centralized hub for the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA), improving coordination, reducing operational costs, and enhancing service delivery. It is also expected to function as a one-stop center for fisheries governance and development.
The groundbreaking ceremony, held on April 8, 2026, was led by Ambassador Charles Snetter, who represented the Minister of State for Presidential Affairs and officiated on behalf of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai. Delivering remarks on behalf of the government, Amb. Snetter described the project as a reflection of the administration’s development agenda, particularly the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development, which focuses on strengthening institutions, modernizing infrastructure, and promoting sustainable economic growth. He stressed that the government is prioritizing the construction of permanent facilities for public institutions as part of efforts to reduce long-term costs and ensure operational stability.
“This groundbreaking demonstrates a deliberate shift toward building secure, modern environments where institutions can operate efficiently and deliver meaningful services to the Liberian people,” he said. Officials also highlighted the strategic importance of the complex’s location, noting that it will complement planned efforts to develop a modern fishing port nearby. Together, these initiatives are expected to create a coordinated system for managing and expanding Liberia’s fisheries industry.
The project is seen as a catalyst for broader economic growth. The fisheries sector plays a critical role in job creation, food security, and income generation, particularly for women and youth engaged in fish processing, marketing, and aquaculture.
Stakeholders say the new facility will open opportunities for innovation and private sector participation while strengthening community livelihoods. The World Bank was widely commended for its continued support to Liberia’s fisheries sector, with officials noting that the partnership reflects confidence in the country’s development agenda and commitment to sustainable resource management.
For her part, World Bank renewed its commitment to supporting Liberia’s fisheries sector, underscoring more than two decades of sustained investment aimed at strengthening institutions, creating jobs, and promoting the sustainable use of marine resources.
Speaking on behalf of the World Bank Country Director, Abraham Diouf highlighted that the Bank’s engagement in Liberia’s fisheries dates back to 2010, with the launch of the West African Regional Fisheries Project. The initiative, implemented through the then Bureau of National Fisheries, laid the groundwork for reforms and investments that continue to shape the sector today. A key milestone of that intervention was the establishment of the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NAFA), now the central body responsible for managing and regulating Liberia’s fisheries resources. According to Diouf, the creation of NAFA stands as a direct result of the World Bank’s early support, providing a stronger institutional framework for governance and development.
Diouf emphasized that the Bank’s involvement has not only been long-standing but also strategic, focusing on unlocking economic opportunities while ensuring that Liberia’s natural resources are managed responsibly. He noted that ongoing investments are geared toward boosting employment and fostering sustainable growth within the sector. Reaffirming the Bank’s position, Diouf expressed optimism about deepening collaboration with NAFA and the Government of Liberia. He stressed that the World Bank remains committed to advancing the country’s development agenda, particularly in building a fisheries sector that is both productive and environmentally sustainable.
The renewed commitment signals World Bank continued backing for Liberia’s efforts to harness its fisheries potential as a driver of economic growth and national development. As construction begins, the fisheries complex is expected to stand as a symbol of progress and national resilience an investment aimed at building a more efficient, inclusive, and sustainable blue economy. Officials say the project underscores a broader national vision, harnessing Liberia’s natural resources.
Author: Victor Quaye
