By: G Bennie Bravo Johnson, I.
In a landmark event aimed at transforming Liberia’s fisheries and aquaculture sector, the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA) on Friday, May 9, 2025, officially broken ground for the reconstruction of the Klay Hatchery in Bomi County.
The occasion which was marked by a special ceremony attended by government officials, international partners, local authorities and fish farmers sets the stage for immediate
construction of the Klay Hatchery that is poised to become a symbol of self-reliance and innovation—a facility that will uplift local communities, promote food security, and chart a new course for Liberia’s blue economy.
The Acting Director of the National Fisheries and Aqua-Cultural Authority – J. Cyrus Saygbe, in his remark described the project as a turning point for local fish farmers and a significant stride toward food security and economic empowerment.
Asserting that it’s a moment that symbolizes the Government aspiration to build a more food-secure Nation.
“Today, we come together to celebrate a defining moment in the transformation of Liberia’s fisheries and aquaculture sector—a moment that symbolizes not only our perseverance but our shared aspiration to build a more food-secure, economically vibrant, and inclusive nation,” Mr. Saygbe declared.
Saygbe intimated that Liberia’s aquaculture development for many years has been hampered by limited access to quality fingerlings. Asserting that the lack of availability has increased costs for farmers, forced reliance on imports, and discouraged widespread investment in the sector.
“For far too long, our farmers have struggled with the financial strain and logistical headaches of importing fingerlings. But today, we take a bold step forward—no longer will our people have to wait endlessly or pay exorbitant fees. We will produce reliable, commercial-grade fingerlings right here in Klay.”
The Adding Director further added that the reconstructed hatchery, once completed, will be equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for fingerling production, fish feed experimentation, and technical support services. NaFAA plans to station a team of trained aquaculture specialists at the site to provide real-time extension services and hands-on training to farmers.
“This facility is not just a production center. It is a cornerstone of national development. By lowering operational barriers, boosting productivity, and preparing local producers for market readiness, we are enabling our fish farmers to thrive.”
In furtherance, Director Saygbe announced that the hatchery will include a Research and Development Wing, which will work in collaboration with academic institutions and the Central Agricultural Research Institute (CARI) to produce affordable fish feed using locally sourced ingredients.
“We are deliberately addressing the twin challenges of fish feed and research. Through innovation and evidence-based practices, we aim to make aquaculture accessible to even the smallest producers,” he said.
According to SaygbeI, to make the project sustainable and competitive, the hatchery will operate under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Stating that NaFAA will open a transparent bidding process to recruit a private firm to manage the hatchery, ensuring efficiency and access to broader markets.
“This model will attract private investment, stimulate innovation, and connect our farmers with processors and buyers across the country and beyond. We want our farmers to not only produce, but to profit.”
The Acting NaFAA Boss averred that the initiative also aligns with NaFAA’s broader decentralization agenda, aimed at expanding service delivery and strengthening regulatory oversight across Liberia’s coastal and inland communities.
“We are reimagining how NaFAA functions—from being a donor-dependent agency to one that is self-sustaining and service-oriented. Through improved licensing systems and value-added services, we are building resilience,” Mr. Saygbe asserted.
Director Saygbe lauded the World Bank for its technical and financial support – as NaFAA’s long-standing development partner.
“We owe a debt of gratitude to the World Bank for standing by us in our pursuit of food systems resilience. Their support has been instrumental in bringing this project to life.”
He also hailed the leadership of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., for championing sustainable development in the fisheries sector.
“His Excellency’s commitment to revitalizing both marine and inland fisheries has inspired this work. We thank him for his vision and leadership.”
Saygbe urged all stakeholders to see the hatchery not merely as a structure, but as a shared commitment to national progress.
“Let this moment serve not just as a celebration, but as a rallying call to action,” he said passionately. “The future of Liberian aquaculture is not only near—it is now. Together, let us build that future with purpose, unity, and determination.”
