By Fatima Kpaka
Freetown, August 7, 2025: President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has announced transformative reforms in Sierra Leone’s fisheries sector, positioning it as a cornerstone of economic growth and sustainability. Speaking during the State Opening of the Third Session of the Sixth Parliament, the President emphasized the sector’s vital role in livelihoods, national revenue, and environmental stewardship.
“Fishing sustains over a million Sierra Leoneans, especially women and young people in coastal communities,” President Bio stated. The sector currently contributes 12% to the nation’s GDP and is a key source of employment and food security.
In 2024 alone, the fisheries sector generated over $5 million USD, surpassing revenue targets. With the introduction of a Quota Management System, the government projects that revenues will more than double — all while ensuring the protection of fish stocks.
The sector has undergone significant modernization: Fisheries data has been digitised for better monitoring and transparency; anew Aquaculture and Inland Fisheries Policy has been launched; and a closed fishing season has been introduced to allow fish populations to recover.
President Bio said that the Industrial fish production is expected to reach 150,000 metric tonnes, marking a substantial increase in output.
He said that a landmark partnership with Egypt is paving the way for joint ventures in commercial fishing and shrimp farming, expanding opportunities for investment and technology transfer.
“These reforms will establish a modern Blue Economy that creates jobs now while safeguarding our oceans for the future,” President Bio affirmed.