AYV News, January 29, 2026
The Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Princess Dugba, has announced that the ministry generated NLe163 million in 2025, marking an increase from NLe150 million in 2024.
The Minister described the revenue growth as evidence of improved management, enforcement, and policy reforms within the fisheries sector, while reaffirming the ministry’s commitment to further boosting revenue performance in 2026.
According to Princess Dugba, the ministry will continue to strengthen monitoring systems, promote sustainable fishing practices, and enhance compliance across both industrial and artisanal fisheries to ensure long-term economic and environmental benefits.
In addition to the revenue announcement, the Minister declared a closed fishing season for the artisanal fisheries subsector, effective from 1st February to 28th February, as part of efforts to preserve fish stocks and promote sustainable fish production.
She explained that the closed season is a critical conservation measure designed to allow fish species to reproduce and replenish, ultimately leading to increased catches and improved livelihoods for fishing communities.
The Minister called on artisanal fishers and stakeholders to comply with the directive, assuring them that the policy is in their long-term interest and aligned with international best practices in fisheries management.
Observers say the combined focus on revenue generation and resource conservation reflects the government’s broader strategy of balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability in Sierra Leone’s fisheries sector.
