By: Emmanuel Koffa| Grand Kru County Correspondent
Barclayville, Grand Kru County-Saturday, April 26, 2025- Several women from the Communities of Grand Cess, Sasstown, and Picnicess amongst other coastal towns recently participated in a comprehensive financial training program organized by Conservation International, a significant move to empower local women and enhance the fisheries sector in Grand Kru County.
Sabawu Yennego, Project Manager at Conservation International Liberia told journalists that the training aims to boost financial skills among fishmongers in the area, promoting sustainable fishing practices and improving economic livelihoods.
She noted that the initiative comes as a response to the challenges faced by local fishers and sellers who often lack essential financial management skills crucial for the growth of their businesses.
The group initially engaged with the formation of fishing Cooperatives before engaging into a micro-loan initiative designed to empower women in the fishing sector.
During the training, participants learned about budgeting, saving, investment strategies, and effective business planning; thus equipping them with the necessary tools to manage their finances more effectively.
“Empowering women in the fisheries sector is not only beneficial for individual businesses but also for the community as a whole,” said Sabawu Yennego, Project Manager at Conservation International. “By strengthening financial literacy, we can help these women take charge of their enterprises, make informed decisions, and ultimately contribute to a more sustainable local economy.”
According to her, by integrating environmental awareness into the training, Conservation International aims to foster a holistic approach to fisheries management that supports both economic development and environmental conservation.
Participants expressed enthusiasm and gratitude for the opportunity to enhance their skills, while at the same time underscored the importance of the training, stating that it provided them with practical knowledge that they can apply immediately to their businesses. “I used to struggle with managing my finances,” Beatrice Nimely, one of the participants shared. “After this training, I feel more confident to make better decisions and grow my business.”
The financial training is part of a broader effort by Conservation International to promote responsible fishing methods and ensure the longevity of fish stocks in the area.
Local government officials and community leaders also attended the training session, offering their support and emphasizing the need for ongoing initiatives that benefit women and promote sustainable practices. “Women are the backbone of our local economy, and supporting them is essential for the overall development of our community,” said Madam Comfort Nimely Bloh, Barclayville City Mayoress. “We must continue to invest in programs that empower these women.”
Meanwhile, Conservation International plans to conduct follow-up sessions and workshops to ensure ongoing support for the women as they implement what they have learned as they hope to see a ripple effect in the local fisheries sector; where strengthened financial capabilities lead to greater income stability, improved business practices, and a commitment to sustainable fisheries management.
Edited: Jesefu Morris Keita| Editor-In-Chief
