The National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA) has officially launched a major coastal clean-up campaign along the West Point and Banjor beaches, marking the beginning of an intensified national effort to promote a cleaner, safer, and healthier marine environment ahead of World Fisheries Day, celebrated globally on November 21. The campaign, launched on Tuesday, signifies NaFAA’s renewed commitment to restoring and sustaining environmental sanitation across Liberia’s nine coastal counties. The initiative aims to reduce marine pollution, protect vital coastal ecosystems, and promote safer fishing communities.
Speaking at the event, Acting Director General of NaFAA, J. Cyrus Saygbe Sr., emphasized that maintaining clean beaches is a shared responsibility that requires the active participation of every stakeholder. “This requires a joint effort to keep all our beaches clean,” J. Cyrus Saygbe Sr., Acting Director General, NaFAA. He further highlighted that NaFAA is working closely with its fisheries partners to strengthen and expand clean-up efforts nationwide, ensuring long-term sustainability and stronger community ownership. NaFAA is calling on fishermen, fishmongers, boat operators, local businesses, community leaders, and residents to fully participate in this ongoing campaign.
The Authority stressed that keeping Liberia’s shores clean is essential not only for public health but also for the protection of marine life, the promotion of tourism, and the overall development of the fisheries sector. Tuesday’s launch brought together a strong coalition of partners who pledged their unwavering support to the national initiative. These partners include: • The Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) • Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) • Liberia Coast Guard • West Point and Banjor Community Leadership • Liberia Artisanal Fishermen Association (LAFA) • Liberia Fishing Cooperative • UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) • Conservation organizations and youth volunteer groups Representatives from these institutions commended NaFAA for taking proactive steps to protect the environment and reaffirmed their commitment to working collaboratively to ensure the success of the campaign.
Community leaders in West Point and Banjor also lauded the initiative, describing it as timely, necessary, and transformative for coastal communities that have long struggled with waste management challenges. As Liberia joins the global community in observing World Fisheries Day 2025, NaFAA is encouraging all citizens to actively participate in beach clean-up exercises, environmental awareness events, and community outreach programs throughout the week. NaFAA reaffirmed that maintaining clean beaches is crucial to safeguarding livelihoods, supporting sustainable fisheries, and ensuring a healthier future for generations to come.
