By Akoi M. Baysah, Jr.
Liberia on Monday recorded a historic leap in its fisheries sector with the commissioning of the country’s first semi-industrial fiberglass fishing vessel.
The Sea King—a move government officials say will boost local fish production, create jobs, and significantly reduce dependence on imported fish.
The vessel, procured through the World Bank–funded Liberia Sustainable Management of Fisheries Project, was unveiled at the Mesurado Pier on Bushrod Island in the presence of senior government officials, development partners, and hundreds of jubilant fisherfolk.
Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung, representing President Joseph Boakai who is on international engagements, described the moment as “a new chapter in Liberia’s journey toward self-reliance and inclusive economic growth.”
“This vessel is more than equipment, it is hope for our coastal communities,” the Vice President declared. “It is a direct pathway to job creation, strengthened GDP, and meaningful empowerment for Liberians who depend on the ocean for their livelihood.”
In one of the biggest announcements of the day, Vice President Koung revealed that the government has approved a significant reduction in annual license fees for all artisanal fishing canoes beginning January 1, 2026.
The new fees are:USD 30 for paddle canoes (reduced from 50 USD), 175 USD for canoes with 1-15 HP engines (down from USD 250), and 350 USD for canoes with 16–40 HP engines (previously 450 USD).
“For many years, our fishermen have asked for relief. Today, your voices have been heard,” Koung said, directing NaFAA to immediately begin nationwide communication and enforcement of the new policy.
The Vice President emphasized that fisheries remain a critical pillar of the government’s ARREST Agenda, describing the sector as “a low-hanging fruit for job creation, food security, and private investment.”
He commended Liberia’s fisherfolk for their resilience and thanked the World Bank for its “unwavering confidence in the Liberian people.”
World Bank officials and NaFAA leadership expressed optimism that The Sea King will serve as a training tool for young Liberians, enhance local harvesting capacity, and stimulate broader reforms within the sector.
As Liberia pushes to develop a modern fishing port, expand aquaculture, and improve landing sites nationwide, Monday’s ceremony stands as a powerful signal of the government’s ambition to build a fisheries sector that works for all.
The commissioning ended with cheers, as fisherfolk hailed the government’s decision on licensing fees, a policy shift many say will ease economic pressure and encourage more Liberians to remain active in the trade.
