By: Akoi M. Baysah, Jr.
In a landmark step toward revitalizing Liberia’s fisheries and aquaculture sector, the government has officially launched the reconstruction of the Klay Hatchery, a facility poised to transform the industry through enhanced fingerling production, research, and market development.
The announcement, made during a nationally held ceremony, marks a bold stride in addressing long-standing challenges faced by local fish farmers most notably, the chronic lack of access to affordable, high-quality fingerling fish.
NaFAA, Acting Director General, Cyrus Saygbe on Friday, May 9, 2025 stated that the development is expected to significantly reduce reliance on costly imports and improve productivity for thousands of fish producers across the country.
“This moment symbolizes not only our perseverance but our shared aspiration to build a more food-secure, economically vibrant, and inclusive nation,” said a NaFAA DGduring the launch.
The reconstructed hatchery, located in Bomi County, will serve as a cornerstone of national development. It will house a team of trained specialists from the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA) who will provide technical assistance, extension services, and real-time guidance to farmers.
Additionally, Maybe noted that the facility will feature a research and development wing dedicated to finding cost-effective, locally sourced alternatives for fish feed one of the sector’s most pressing bottlenecks.
He lamented that the initiative also places a strong emphasis on market access with plans to train farmers in post-harvest handling, value chain development, and business skills, the hatchery will help producers meet growing demand and compete in both domestic and international markets.
He announced that the facility will operate under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, with a competitively selected private operator to oversee its functions. This model aims to attract investment, promote contract farming, and link farmers to processors and buyers fostering a vibrant and profitable aquaculture value chain.
As part of its broader decentralization agenda, NaFAA is also moving to diversify its revenue streams through improved licensing systems and service delivery. These changes are expected to reduce dependence on donor funding and enhance the agency’s long-term sustainability.
Gratitude was extended to the World Bank for its critical support through NaFAA, and to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., whose leadership has been credited with driving systemic reform across the fisheries sector.
With stakeholders from government, development partners, academia, and the private sector present, the launch of the Klay Hatchery stands as a symbol of national progress and collective resolve.
“The future of Liberian aquaculture is not only near—it is now,” concluded the NaFAA statement. “Together, let us build that future with purpose, unity, and determination.”
