NaFAA Director General Designate Welcomes €25 Million European Union in Liberia Financing Agreement for Fisheries Sector
The Director General Designate of the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA), J Cyrus Saygbe Sr. has welcomed the signing of a €25 million financing agreement between the Government of Liberia and the European Union, describing it as a landmark investment that will significantly strengthen artisanal fisheries, protect Liberia’s territorial waters, and empower fishing communities across the country.
Speaking at the signing ceremony held on Friday, January 23, 2026, at the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, Mr. Saygbe reflected on a well-known coastal proverb: when the tide is right and the net is strong, even the smallest canoe can return with abundance. He emphasized that sustainable livelihoods in the fisheries sector depend on strong institutions, effective governance, and protected waters.
“Today, we are strengthening the net, protecting our waters, and empowering Liberia’s fisheries sector to reach its full potential,” Mr. Saygbe stated.
He noted that the EU-supported financing will have a transformative impact on artisanal fishermen and fishmongers across Liberia’s nine coastal counties, directly improving livelihoods and boosting local economies. The initiative aligns with ongoing government efforts to ease the burden on artisanal fishers, including the 25 percent reduction in canoe licensing fees, while simultaneously strengthening fishmongers’ business and entrepreneurial capacity.
Mr. Saygbe highlighted key NaFAA initiatives such as the Quarterly Fish Market Day, which connects producers directly with consumers and markets, improves transparency, and enhances income opportunities for fisheries actors along the value chain.
The Director General Designate further emphasized that the financing will play a critical role in addressing Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, strengthening institutional capacity, building human capital, reducing post-harvest losses, and improving fish quality, standards, and fair trade practices nationwide.
Expressing deep appreciation to the European Union, Mr. Saygbe described the agreement as a clear demonstration of trust and partnership. He reaffirmed that the collaboration reinforces Liberia’s commitment to building a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable fisheries sector—one that supports food security, job creation, and long-term economic growth.
Source : NaFAA
