Comoros Seeks NaFAA’s Partnership
A high-level delegation from the Union of the Comoros Islands, has expressed strong interest in forging a joint fisheries cooperation with the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA). The visit, according to a release, held at NaFAA’s headquarters on Bushrod Island, centered on three major areas of potential collaboration, including training and capacity building, trade and policy development, and licensing regime replication. The Comorian delegation was led by Mr. Ahamed Yassian, Director of the Cabinet of the Ministry of Economy, Industry, Trade, and Regional Integration. Mr. Yassian spoke of the need to strengthen the technical capacity of fisheries professionals in his country. While speaking through an interpreter, Yassian underscored Comoros’ desire to benefit from Liberia’s experience in fisheries training, knowledge exchange, and professional development programs facilitated by NaFAA. On the subject of Trade and Policy Development, Mr. Yassian requested Liberia’s technical guidance in formulating a fisheries trade policy for Comoros. He particularly expressed interest in Liberia’s engagement with the European Union Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement (SFPA), noting: its role in sectoral growth and financial benefits. “This interest reflects Comoros’ ambition to expand its fisheries economy through structured trade mechanisms and international market access,” Yassian said. With regard to licensing regime replication, the delegation commended Liberia’s internationally recognized licensing system, praised for its transparency and effectiveness in fisheries governance. Mr. Yassian noted that adopting Liberia’s model could help Comoros improve fisheries administration, strengthen compliance, and boost revenue mobilization. In response to the delegation, Acting Director General of NaFAA, J. Cyrus Saygbe,Sr, welcomed the initiative and reaffirmed country’s commitment to sharing technical expertise with African counterparts. He assured the delegation that the country was opened to fostering collaborative partnerships that will advance sustainable fisheries development across the continent.
Mr. Saygbe also briefed the delegation on country’s ongoing efforts to address the European Union Yellow Card, highlighting the country cautious approach to granting international fishing licenses to safeguard compliance and avoid further sanctions.
“The government, through NaFAA, stands ready to lend its expertise and experience to support the fisheries sector of the Comoros Islands. Together, we can strengthen cooperation and create a model for sustainable fisheries development in Africa,” Mr. Saygbe assured.
Both parties expressed optimism that the discussions would pave the way for a structured partnership to enhance the country fishing industries and the Comoros Islands for the mutual benefit of their people.