By Jessica Cox
Monrovia,The Government of Liberia, through the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA), has announced the arrival of a semi-industrial fishing vessel, the Sea King, marking what officials describe as a “new era” in the country’s fisheries industry.
The announcement was made during the regular press briefing at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism, where Deputy Minister for Press and public Affairs Daniel Sando highlighted recent developments within the sector.
Constructed in Oman with support from the World Bank under the Liberia Sustainable Management of Fisheries Project, the Sea King is Liberia’s first fiberglass semi-industrial vessel. Authorities say the vessel is not only a technological upgrade but also a symbol of transformation one expected to create jobs, increase productivity, and strengthen Liberia’s place in the global fisheries market.
NaFAA officials disclosed that the vessel will be operated under a public-private partnership, with preference given to a Liberian company to manage its operations. “This vessel isn’t just a ship, it is a symbol of transformation for Liberia’s growth economy,” Sando emphasized.
The briefing also shed light on NaFAA’s recent Fisheries Development Partners Coordination Group meeting, which brought together key stakeholders, including the World Bank, European Union, Food and Agriculture Organization, UNDP, and USAID. The meeting was described as an important step in building synergies and setting a clear strategic direction for the sector.
During the session, NaFAA unveiled a series of initiatives, including:
A new organizational logo,
Progress on the National Fish Monk database,
Development of an aquaculture data system,
Introduction of cutting-edge fisheries monitoring center technology,
Plans to establish a regional office in Harper, Maryland County,
The Bo-Di circularization strategy,
Reduced licensing fees for artisanal fishermen,
Celebration of World Fisheries Day in November 2025, and A Fisheries Investment Conference slated for February 26, 2026
Officials underscored that these developments reflect growing confidence from international partners in Liberia’s fisheries reform agenda.
Meanwhile, the government also used the opportunity to call on African countries to coordinate more effectively within international bodies such as the United Nations Security Council. Sando stressed that Africa must “consult more frequently to ensure its voice is not underheard, and its interests are fully pursued in overseas negotiations.”
With the arrival of the Sea King and other strategic initiatives, authorities say Liberia is taking bold steps to modernize its fisheries industry, promote sustainability, and expand opportunities for citizens.
