By: Kabinah S. Kaba
MONROVIA – The Acting Director General of the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA), J. Cyrus Saygbe Sr., has emphasized the transformative potential of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in advancing efficiency, investment, and sustainable development within Liberia’s fisheries and aquaculture sector.
Speaking on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, during a courtesy visit by the Country Representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, Mr. Saygbe stated that the integration of PPPs is essential to addressing longstanding challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, limited innovation, and financing gaps.
He also noted that Public-Private Partnerships can play a critical role in revitalizing Liberia’s fisheries sector by merging public oversight with private sector innovation and capital. He added that this approach offers a sustainable pathway toward achieving food security and promoting economic growth.
The Acting NaFAA boss praised FAO for its continuous support, particularly in infrastructure development, citing the construction of modern FAO-Thiaroye Processing Technique (FTT) facilities in Montserrado, Margibi, and Grand Bassa Counties. He noted that these modern fish processing sites are helping to improve food safety and product value in coastal communities.
To ensure effective use and sustainability, Mr. Saygbe recommended that all FTT facilities be operated under a Public-Private Partnership framework, allowing for proper management and maintenance in the host fishing communities.
He further disclosed that NaFAA’s new leadership is channeling efforts toward rejuvenating the aquaculture sector—an area that has historically received limited government investment.
Mr. Saygbe noted that the World Bank is currently supporting the reconstruction of the Klay Hatchery in Bomi County, marking a significant step in the revitalization of aquaculture in Liberia.
However, he called for additional support from FAO and other international partners to renovate two key hatcheries in Tappita, Nimba County, and Dougee, Grand Gedeh County, emphasizing their strategic importance in expanding aquaculture operations across Liberia.
In response, Mr. Saud Boncie, FAO’s Country Representative for Liberia and Sierra Leone, reaffirmed the UN agency’s commitment to supporting Liberia’s fisheries development. He emphasized FAO’s technical expertise and pledged continued collaboration with NaFAA to attract investment and enhance the growth of the aquaculture sector.
NaFAA continues to work closely with development partners to build a resilient and commercially viable fisheries and aquaculture industry—creating employment, increasing food production, and ensuring environmental sustainability.
