Harbel, Margibi County – The National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations has concluded the 23rd conference of the Fishery Committee For Eastern Central Atlantic in Harbel, Margibi County.
Speaking at the program marking the end of the conference, the Resident Coordinator of the United Nations Development Program, Christine Umotoni, expressed the hope that the participants’ to take the discussions and considered strong policies and best practices that will encourage the ecological usage of the region’s live aquatic wealth via a science-based approach.
Knowing that fisheries contribute to the food security of billions of people worldwide and play a critical role in improving the livelihoods of coastal communities in many nations, Miss Umotoni urged conferees to stay strong in carrying out such good work.
In order to address the numerous issues that aim to endanger marine life and save the industry, Miss Umotoni stated that CECAF member states should put the proposals into practice.
The National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NAFAA), the Liberia Maritime Authority, the Environmental Protection Agency, and other sectors were encouraged by the UNDP Resident Coordinator to work with FAO and partners to build capacity on implementing the Port State Measures Agreement (PSMA), with a focus on combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing and empowering women in small scale fisheries (SSF) with solar-powered storage, fish handling, and procedure.
Binta Stephen-Tchicaya, the Food and Agriculture Organization’s resident representative, guaranteed the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority of the organization’s complete support in preparing its employees to carry out the decision made at the conclusion of the conference.
She expressed the hope that the different participants would apply the suggestions, findings, and scientific reports of the sub committees in order to enhance the fishing industry as a crucial component of their individual economies.
After the devastating effects of COVID 19, Austin Wehye, the newly elected chairman of the Fishery Committee For The Eastern Central Atlantic and director of research and statistics at the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority, said the 23rd session marked a new beginning for CECAF.
Mr. Wehye urged the various delegates from the various countries to make sure a singular duty to advise various managements to take into consideration CECAF advice.
The conference, held under the theme: “Toward Practical Solutions to Strengthen Fisheries Management and Sustainability in CECAF Region,” is aimed promoting a sustainable utilization of living marine resources through a science-based approach to fisheries management.
The conference which brought together representatives from countries on the African Continent with coastal communities and the UN FAO, lasted for four days.
Reported by: Augustine Octavius
Contact: +231777463963
Email: augustineoctavius@gmail.com
