MONROVIA – The World Bank’s implementation mission for the Liberia Sustainable Management of Fisheries Project (LSMFP) officially kicked off this week in Monrovia, reaffirming support for Liberia’s strides toward sustainable fisheries governance and economic empowerment of coastal communities.
The project, spearheaded by the Government of Liberia through the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA), is entering a crucial phase of implementation, with World Bank officials set to assess key interventions and chart a path forward for maximizing outcomes. The visiting team, led by World Bank Task Team Leader Ms. Ruma Tavorath, will engage with project stakeholders, including NaFAA’s Acting Director General J. Cyrus Saygbe Sr., in what marks their first formal engagement since his appointment.
The mission will review the construction progress of a 1.2-kilometer asphalt access road and the site earmarked for NaFAA’s new headquarters, as well as ongoing and planned rehabilitation works at the Klay Hatchery in Bomi County. The team will also visit the fiberglass canoe production site as preparations advance for the launch of a fleet of environmentally friendly fishing vessels.
The World Bank’s visit places a strong focus on the Project Development Objective (PDO), assessing emerging challenges, and exploring opportunities for project restructuring to enhance effectiveness and resilience. According to an official statement, the mission embodies the Bank’s commitment to adaptive management in a bid to ensure the long-term sustainability of the fisheries sector.
Since its inception, the LSMFP has made substantial headway. Hundreds of artisanal fishermen have received eco-friendly multifilament nets, part of a national effort to improve fisheries governance and preserve marine biodiversity. The project has also equipped 400 fishermen with Automatic Identification System (AIS) devices, enhancing maritime safety, enabling rapid emergency response, and reducing the risk of vessel loss. The devices are tailored for harsh marine environments, powered by rechargeable batteries, solar panels, or direct electrical connections.
The project’s inclusivity extends through its support for over 1,450 women engaged in the fisheries value chain. Through targeted grants under Sub-Component 2.2, the LSMFP is helping women transition from small-scale, informal trade to viable micro-enterprises, contributing to gender equity and community-based economic resilience.
