Freetown, April 23, 2025 — In a significant stride towards sustainable fisheries management, the Russian research vessel ATLANTNIRO was warmly received at the Queen Elizabeth II Quay in Freetown. The event was graced by key figures including the Honorable Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Princess Dugba Bio; Acting Director of Fisheries, Sheku Sei; Permanent Secretary, Brima T.S. Kebbie; and esteemed professors from the Institute of Marine Biology and Oceanology (IMBO), University of Sierra Leone.
In his welcome address, Acting Director Sheku Sei emphasized the critical role of fisheries research in supporting the sustainable management of Sierra Leone’s marine resources. He highlighted that such collaborative efforts are essential for informed policy-making and the long-term viability of the sector.
Permanent Secretary Brima T.S. Kebbie assured the Russian scientific team of the Ministry’s full support, noting that the timing of the research survey aligns perfectly with national objectives to enhance resource management and conservation efforts.
Delivering the keynote statement, Minister Princess Dugba Bio expressed profound gratitude to the Russian Federation for its continued bilateral support towards Sierra Leone’s development, particularly in the fisheries sector. She acknowledged the longstanding partnership and its contributions to advancing scientific research and capacity building.
The Importance of Fish Stock Surveys
Fish stock assessments are pivotal for understanding the health and dynamics of marine ecosystems. They provide data on species abundance, distribution, and reproductive rates, which are essential for setting sustainable catch limits and preventing overfishing. Such surveys inform management decisions that balance ecological preservation with economic interests, ensuring the longevity of fish populations and the communities that depend on them.
Fisheries: A Pillar of Sierra Leone’s Economy and Food Security
The fisheries sector is a cornerstone of Sierra Leone’s economy, contributing approximately 12% to the national GDP. It provides employment for about 200,000 individuals directly and supports an additional 600,000 indirectly along the coastal regions. Moreover, fish constitutes around 80% of the animal protein intake for the Sierra Leonean population, underscoring its significance in national food security.
Aligning with the ‘Feed Salone’ Initiative
The collaborative research endeavor aligns with President Julius Maada Bio’s ‘Feed Salone’ initiative, a flagship program under the government’s Big Five Game Changers aimed at achieving food self-sufficiency and economic resilience. By enhancing the sustainable management of marine resources, the initiative seeks to bolster local food production, reduce dependency on imports, and stimulate economic growth through the fisheries sector.
Minister Dugba Bio reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to integrating scientific research into policy frameworks, ensuring that the management of marine resources is both data-driven and sustainable. She called upon all stakeholders to support and participate in initiatives that promote the responsible utilization of the country’s rich marine biodiversity.
The arrival of the ATLANTNIRO vessel marks a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s journey towards sustainable fisheries management, reflecting the nation’s dedication to preserving its marine ecosystems for future generations.
