Marine resources could make major contribution to economy

With the largest fishing grounds for shrimp in West Africa–not to mention tuna, mackerel, snapper, catfish, lobster and crab, cuttlefish and octopus–Sierra Leone has marine resources that could make a considerable contribution to its economy. Some 200 species have been identified in the waters off its 310-mile coastline.
Revenue generated for the government by the sector last year amounted to more than $2 million and is expected to increase by 3.5 percent this year. “Apart from diamonds, fisheries will be the next biggest income generator in Sierra Leone,” says Okere Adams, Minister of Marine Resources.

Investment in industrial fisheries is encouraged either in the form of agreements with other governments or through joint ventures between foreign and local fishing companies. “We are putting together a document to tell other countries about fishing in Sierra Leone,” says Mr. Adams. “We want them to come and fish here.”
Responsibly managed, the sector could sustain a high level of production almost indefinitely. Care is taken to manage the industry and to ensure that stocks are not over-exploited.
All industrial fishing vessels applying for licenses must be registered with the Sierra Leone Maritime Administration before their applications are considered. Licensed fishing vessels operate in accordance with the National Fisheries Legislation and industrial vessels are regularly monitored.

Plans have been drawn up to build a central fishing harbor complex at Freetown, where all landings, ransshipments and exports could be effectively supervised. This would result in a higher percentage of the foreign exchange earnings ending up in government coffers, and considerably enhance fisheries development.
The estimated $44 million needed to build the complex is being sought, and the government of Iran has indicated that it might contribute 45 percent of the cost.
Artisanal or small-scale fishing contributes significantly to feeding Sierra Leone’s population and inland fisheries are also being encouraged. “We are going to stock our upcountry rivers and lakes with freshwater fish and are constructing fish farms all over the country,” says Mr. Adams.