Liberian Government Launches Transformative Fisheries Incubator Program, Offering Grants Up to US$20,000 to Empower Fishmongers/Fishsellers
Freeport Bushrod Island – The government of Liberia, through the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA) has unveiled a major push to modernize Liberia’s fisheries sector and transition small-scale fishmongers into thriving enterprise owners. Speaking today at the launch of the Liberian Women’s Sustainable Fisheries and Livelihoods Incubator Program (LWSFILI) on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, NaFAA’s Director General Hon. J. Cyrus Saygbe Sr. announced a comprehensive package of business incubation and competitive grants ranging from US$5,000 to US$20,000.
Addressing a gathering of women fishmongers and young entrepreneurs, Director General Saygbe emphasized that the Government of Liberia is responding directly to the capital constraints that have long kept hardworking Liberians trapped in subsistence-level trading.
“For too long, our women and youth have had the determination and market knowledge to succeed, but lacked the capital to grow,” said Hon. Saygbe. “Through the LWSFILI program, the Government of Liberia has heard your cry. We are moving beyond simple cash handouts to build sustainable businesses, unlock opportunities, and create a new generation of Liberian entrepreneurs.”
Driving Innovation and Value Addition
While the program will provide vital technical training, including business registration, financial management, and bankable business plan preparation, the Director General challenged applicants to look beyond traditional fish-drying methods, stating that NaFAA is actively seeking innovative proposals in value-added processing such as fish oil production, fish powder, and hygienically packaged, branded fish products ready for supermarkets, hotels, and international export.
Modern Logistics & Cold Chain: Improved storage facilities, distribution systems, and digital sales platforms to reduce post-harvest losses.
“We want to move from simply selling fish to building businesses around fish,” Saygbe noted. “The woman who sells fish in the market today can become the owner of a fish-processing company tomorrow. The youth with an idea for fish packaging can build a brand that competes across West Africa.”
Strict Accountability for Public Funds
Director General Saygbe issued a stern warning regarding the management of the US$5,000 to US$20,000 grants, stressing that the funds are a serious investment in Liberia’s blue economy and will be closely tracked.
“These resources are an investment in your future, and we expect measurable results,” Saygbe declared. “Utilize these grants strictly for their intended purpose. We will monitor beneficiaries closely, and anyone who diverts these funds to unauthorized activities will face prosecution.”
How to Apply and Inquire
NaFAA encourages all eligible women and young entrepreneurs across the fisheries and aquaculture value chain to bring forward their most creative, growth-oriented business ideas.
Director Saygbe cautioned, stating, “For inquiries regarding the LWSFILI program and application guidelines, the public can contact the NaFAA Call Center toll-free at 6232, where representatives are standing by to assist”.
Social Media Platforms write-up
The Government of Liberia, through the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA), has officially launched the Liberian Women’s Sustainable Fisheries and Livelihoods Incubator Program (LWSFILI) today at Freeport, Bushrod Island. Speaking at the launch, NaFAA Director General Hon. J. Cyrus Saygbe Sr. unveiled a transformative package featuring hands-on business training and competitive grants ranging from US$5,000 to US$20,000 to empower women fishmongers and young entrepreneurs.
