By: Thaimu Bai Sesay
In a groundbreaking move to promote sustainable fisheries management and conserve marine resources, the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR), in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Artisanal Fishermen Consortium, has announced a month-long Closed Season for artisanal and industrial fishing. Scheduled to run from February 1 to February 28, 2025, this initiative aligns with international best practices and aims to protect the country’s fish stocks while ensuring long-term food security.
As part of its comprehensive sensitization drive, the MFMR leadership—comprising Minister of Fisheries, Princess Dugba; Deputy Minister, Haja Isata Abdulai Kamara; Permanent Secretary, Brima Kebbie; and Acting Director of Fisheries, Sheku Sei, has been visiting fishing communities nationwide. These engagements aim to educate stakeholders about the significance of the Closed Season and its potential to enhance the sustainability of Sierra Leone’s fisheries sector.
Speaking to fishers in Tombo and Bonthe, Minister Dugba described the Closed Season as a cornerstone of the government’s strategy to conserve marine resources. She emphasized its importance in safeguarding the livelihoods of fishing communities while boosting national food security. To mitigate economic disruptions during the closure, the Minister announced alternative livelihood initiatives, including football galas, free mobile medical services, and access to affordable fish and fisheries products.
The Acting Director of Fisheries, Sheku Sei, underscored the initiative’s alignment with the government’s Feed Salone Program. Addressing stakeholders in Moa Wharf, Old Wharf, Portee Rokupa, Sulima, and Gbondapi, he described the Closed Season as vital for protecting fish stocks, boosting national revenue, and ensuring Sierra Leone retains its status as a leading fisheries hub in the sub-region.
Deputy Minister Kamara, during her visits to Port Loko and Kambia Districts, reinforced the government’s commitment to fostering sustainable practices in the sector. She appealed to fishers to abandon harmful fishing methods and adopt environmentally friendly techniques to secure their livelihoods for generations to come.
Gbessay Kanu, Interim Head of the National Consortium of Fishermen, expressed his group’s commitment to ensuring full compliance with the Closed Season regulations. He urged fellow fishers to cooperate fully with the initiative, emphasizing the importance of collective action in achieving sustainable fisheries management.
Despite widespread support, some stakeholders raised concerns about potential challenges during the Closed Season. Women leaders and community representatives called for improved infrastructure, including rehabilitating the ministry’s outstations and providing legal fishing gear. They also advocated for an enabling environment to facilitate seamless fishing operations post-closure.
Promoting compliance and sustainability, Assistant Director of Fisheries for Monitoring, Control, and Surveillance, Lahai Sesay, addressed some concerns during his engagement in Shenge. He stressed the importance of compliance with the Closed Season and assured fishers of the ministry’s readiness to address their challenges.
The Closed Season initiative represents a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s efforts to manage its marine resources sustainably. By fostering collaboration between artisanal fisherfolk, government authorities, and stakeholders, the MFMR is taking decisive steps to ensure the responsible use of the country’s marine resources for the benefit of current and future generations.