AYV News, March 4, 2025
The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources has officially announced the resumption of artisanal fishing following the completion of a one-month closed season.
The temporary suspension, which lasted from February 1 to 28, 2025, was implemented under Section 10 (2b) of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, 2018. The initiative aimed to conserve fish stocks and maintain the marine ecosystem.
The Ministry expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the closure, emphasizing its importance in replenishing the country’s depleting fish population.
“The closed season was a critical step towards ensuring the long-term sustainability of our fisheries and marine resources,” a Ministry stated.
Artisanal fishing activities are set to resume unfettered from midnight on February 28. The Ministry extended gratitude to artisanal fishing communities for their high level of compliance.
“We appreciate the cooperation of our fishing communities and stakeholders who stood by us to make this initiative a success,” the statement added.
However, the Ministry cautioned against the use of illegal fishing gears and other harmful practices, particularly beach seine (draw chain) fishing.
“We will maintain robust monitoring and surveillance of our waters, leaving no stone unturned to clamp down on defaulters,” the statement warned.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable fishing practices and urged fisherfolk to continue supporting efforts to protect Sierra Leone’s marine resources.
