By alimamy.jalloh@awokonewspaper.sl
Freetown, SIERRA LEONE – The Joint Maritime Committee (JMC) of Sierra Leone held a significant study session on Saturday, August 24, at the Bio Hall of the Sierra Leone Foreign Service Academy. The session, led by Princess Dugba, Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, revealed that the estimated total value of Sierra Leone’s fisheries biomass stands at $500 million. The study also projected an increase in the annual harvested value of fisheries to over $100 million, highlighting the economic potential of the country’s marine resources.
The event attracted key stakeholders, including the Inspector General of the Sierra Leone Police, the British High Commissioner, representatives from the Ministry of Finance, Sierra Leone Maritime Administration (SLMA), Sierra Leone Port and Harbour Authority (SLPHA), and the Office of National Security (ONS), as well as the Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF). The study aimed to foster discussions and critical engagement on the challenges facing the JMC’s approach to developing Sierra Leone’s fisheries and marine resources, addressing security gaps in the marine environment, and mobilizing revenue for the country’s sustainable development.
Minister Dugba emphasized the importance of collaboration in achieving the JMC’s goals. “The fisheries management value of Sierra Leone for 2020 to 2025 is estimated at over $100 million annually, with a total biomass value of $500 million,” she stated. “We are striving to get there, but we need support. We need each of you here to collaborate and work together.”
However, Dugba also highlighted challenges within the JMC, noting that some members had not been participating in meetings or responding to essential communications, which has hindered the committee’s progress. She further expressed concern over the rampant smuggling activities at landing sites and wharves by unregistered illegal vessels. Although vessel registration has been delegated to the Freetown City Council (FCC), the exact number of licensed and unlicensed vessels operating in Sierra Leone remains unclear.
Emmanuel B.A. Lansana, Deputy Executive Director of the Sierra Leone Maritime Administration (SLMA), stressed the grave challenges facing maritime infrastructure, particularly the damage to critical facilities and the porosity of the country’s 460-kilometer coastline. He called for a united front within the JMC to effectively execute its mandate. “I urge all members of the JMC to develop strategies and commit fully to this effort,” Lansana asserted.
Abdulai Caulker, National Security Coordinator of the Office of National Security (ONS), highlighted the JMC’s establishment under the National Security and Intelligence Act, aimed at protecting Sierra Leone’s fisheries and ensuring timely responses to illegal fishing, smuggling, and piracy along the coastline. Inspector General of Police William Fayia Sellu welcomed the study session, acknowledging the significant challenges his personnel face in patrolling the sea, which demands substantial resources, particularly fuel. He called for increased collaboration among all line ministries and agencies to ensure the security and safety of Sierra Leone’s marine environment.
Kathleen Reid, Charge D’Affaires of the British High Commission in Sierra Leone, reaffirmed Britain’s commitment to supporting the JMC’s ongoing efforts. She underscored the importance of the study session in enhancing effective engagement and development within the maritime sector.
Minister Dugba concluded by stressing the need for effective and sustainable technology to secure Sierra Leone’s marine environment. She urged the JMC to focus on promoting responsible fishing practices, addressing environmental degradation in the maritime domain, and optimizing Sierra Leone’s blue economy. The outcomes of the JMC study are expected to significantly impact these key areas and drive action towards sustainable development in the country’s marine sector. AJ/26/8/2024
