President Joseph Nyuma Boakai on Wednesday, April 8, officially broke ground for the construction of a fisheries complex at Mesurado Pier.
The project is funded through the Liberia Sustainable Management of Fisheries Project.
Pres. Boakai underscored the importance of investing in infrastructure, noting that the government has planned to foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and inclusive growth that uplifts families and strengthens communities nationwide.
Charles Snetter, who proxied for Liberia Ambassador-at-Large, reinforced the need for responsible management of marine resources. Snetter called for legislation to protect rivers and aquaculture potential.Director General for National Fisheries Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA), J. Cyrus Saygbe, described the upcoming fisheries complex as a “testament to the collaboration between Liberia, and the World Bank.” Saygbe said, the project, when completed, will reflect shared goals of sustainable resource management and economic development. He said, the partnership will modernize, professionalize, and sustainably grow the fisheries and aquaculture sector in line with Liberia’s Ten-Year Strategic Plan.
As construction begins, the groundbreaking event marks not only a physical transformation of the fisheries sector, but also a hopeful vision for the future where resources are “managed sustainably, and communities thrive through shared prosperity.”
NAFAA meanwhile, commemorated the groundbreaking ceremony with crucial support from the World Bank. The ceremony, held at the Mesurado Pier, was attended by dignitaries and stakeholders, who celebrated a pivotal moment for the nation.
The fisheries complex, designed by AEP Consultants Incorporated, and funded through the Liberia Sustainable Management of Fisheries Project, symbolizes a commitment to national progress and sustainable development in one of Liberia’s most promising sectors.
World Bank Country Manager Madam Georgia Wallace said, the project commenced with a total envelop of US$40 million. The project components have to do with improve management and governance of fisheries; strengthens the institutional and regulatory foundation of the fisheries sector. Key deliverables include enhanced governance frameworks, modernized policies and legislation, and strengthened human and institutional capacity.
The project supports the development of climate-smart fisheries management plans, expansion of monitoring, control, and surveillance systems, and deployment of digital tools such as fisheries information and licensing systems.