By Emmanuel Koffa
GRAND KRU – A newly constructed office facility for fishermen in Grandcess, Grand Kru County has been jointly dedicated by the Environment Justice Foundation (EJF) and the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority of Liberia (NaFFA).
The modern office facility which valued was put at US$50,000, was constructed for the southeastern fishermen in Grandcess, by the Environment Justice Foundation, in conjunction with NaFFA, with funding from the European Union.
The dedicatory ceremony which was held Thursday, 24 October 2024, at the Grandcess City Hall, Grand Kru County, was attended by local fishermen of the Collaborative Management Association of Grandcess, community leaders, representatives of the Government of Liberia (GoL), and members of an EJF and NaFFA joint team.
Speaking during the cutting of the ribbon to the facility, National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority Director for Administration, Samuel Tukpa said the initiative aims to enhance fisheries management, provide support for sustainable fishing practices, and empower local communities in safeguarding their marine resources.
The NaFFA Director for Administration lauded the efforts of the Environment Justice Foundation, while at the same time cautioned fishermen in the area to take advantage of the facility and use it for its intended purposes.
Samuel Tukpa, a proxy for NaFAA Director General, Madam Emma Glasco, for his part, asserted that with the support of the European Union and other partners, the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority has strengthened local fisheries management through the establishment of CMAs.
He noted that NaFAA has positively engaged local fishing communities across Liberia’s nine coastal counties to prioritize their well-being.
Tukpa then reaffirmed the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority’s commitment to fishermen across the country, especially regarding ensuring that challenges in the fishing sector are addressed.
West Africa Regional Director at the Environment Justice Foundation, Caphas Asare, during the ceremony, emphasized the importance of sustainable fishing practices for the livelihoods of local communities.
“This facility is more than just a building; it is a commitment to our fishermen and women,” he pointed out.
The facility is a resource center that will provide necessary training, access to information, and support to ensure that fishing remains a viable trade for future generations in Grand Kru County, according to Asare.
He acknowledged the critical role of fishermen in the local economy and the necessity of protecting marine biodiversity.
“By investing in our fishermen and providing them with the tools they need, we are taking a step towards sustainable fisheries management,” he emphasized.
Asare believes that the newly constructed office facility will serve as a hub for communication, training, and collaboration among fishermen in the area.
The fishermen speaking through the head of the Collaborative Management Association of Grandcess, Henry Pelenah, expressed gratitude for the new facility, recognizing its potential to make a tangible difference in their daily operations.
“This office will help us unite as a community, share knowledge, and advocate for our rights as fishermen. We are thankful for the support from EJF and NaFFA,” Pelenah said on behalf of the local fishermen.
Establishing an office for local fishermen in Grandcess signifies a positive step towards better governance in fisheries management, Pelenah stated, adding; “This facility will help us organize our efforts and communicate effectively with stakeholders. We’re grateful to the Environment Justice Foundation and the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority including partners for this gesture.”
The new facility will serve several purposes, including functioning as a meeting point for fishermen and a venue to conduct training on sustainable fishing practices.
The initiative reflects a broader commitment to environmental justice and community empowerment, particularly in regions heavily reliant on marine resources.
Meanwhile, as the event came to a climax, community members and stakeholders discussed the importance of collective action and sustainable practices in ensuring the long-term health of marine ecosystems.
Edited by Olando Testimony Zeongar
