EU technical assistance boosts Liberia’s fisheries sector

LIBERIA – The launch of the European Union-Technical Assistance Food Systems Governance–Fisheries project marks a critical milestone in revitalising Liberia’s fisheries sector. 

At an event held at the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA) Corporate Headquarters near the Freeport of Monrovia, NaFAA Director General Emma Metieh Glassco emphasised the project’s significance. 

She praised the European Union’s financial and technical support, highlighting its focus on enhancing governance, improving the fisheries value chain, and addressing the challenges linked to Liberia’s yellow card status.  

The yellow card, issued by the EU as a warning, restricts Liberia’s access to European markets due to concerns about illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. 

According to Glassco, resolving this issue is vital for Liberia to regain market access, attract foreign investment, and secure the economic benefits of an expanded fisheries sector. 

She noted that the EU represents one of the largest fish markets globally, and Liberia’s accreditation to such a market would be transformative.  

The EU’s assistance goes beyond lifting the yellow card. Glassco called for further support in securing accreditation for Liberia’s exports to both European and U.S. markets. 

She commended President George Weah’s appointment as Director General of Liberia’s Standard Laboratory and described it as a vital step toward ensuring compliance with international standards.  

Ambassador Nona Deprez, Head of the European Union’s delegation to Liberia, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to Liberia’s fisheries sector. She highlighted the importance of fully utilising the technical assistance team provided through the project. 

She explained that these experts are well-versed in Liberia’s fisheries’ challenges and are dedicated to helping the sector achieve sustainable growth. 

Deprez also noted that lifting the yellow card would enable the resumption of negotiations for a Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement, which could unlock significant economic opportunities for Liberia.  

The EU-Technical Assistance Food Systems Governance–Fisheries project is a two-year initiative designed to address critical areas within the sector. 

It aims to enhance governance, combat IUU fishing, develop the fisheries value chain, and promote transparency.

Implemented by GFA Consulting Group and Landell Mills, the project also seeks to strengthen co-management associations and identify entrepreneurial talent along the value chain to boost local production and marketing.  

Project Lead Glasgow B. Togba explained that the initiative would focus on governance improvements and creating opportunities within the domestic fisheries market. 

He outlined plans to promote fisheries value chain development and end IUU fishing, ensuring that Liberia’s fisheries sector operates sustainably and transparently.  

The project’s goals are aligned with broader efforts to position Liberia as a key player in the global fisheries industry. The initiative can potentially transform the sector by enhancing governance, securing international market access, and fostering local entrepreneurship. 

The EU’s continued support underscores the value it places on Liberia’s fisheries as an economic asset and a cornerstone of sustainable development.  

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