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Sierra Leone’s Fisheries Minister, Princess Dugba, and senior Chinese officials concluded a high-level meeting in Beijing this week, reaffirming their commitment to a partnership in the fisheries sector.
The agreement was signed during the second session of the China-Sierra Leone Joint Fisheries Committee (JFC), co-chaired by China’s Vice Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhang Zhili, and Minister Dugba.
The talks, held on Friday, signified the growing ties between China and Sierra Leone, with a focus on sustainable development and economic progress.
Vice Minister Zhang highlighted the importance of the partnership, stating, “Fisheries cooperation between China and Sierra Leone not only contributes to economic and social development but also plays a vital role in enhancing food security and improving the lives of our people.” He pledged China’s support in key areas such as resource conservation, industry-chain development, and technical assistance, emphasising a practical, mutually beneficial approach.
Minister Dugba echoed this sentiment, commending the good outcomes of the bilateral framework. “The cooperation between our countries has been both effective and impactful,” she said. “We look forward to China’s continued support in advancing Sierra Leone’s fisheries and aquaculture sectors.” The discussions covered critical topics including distant-water fishing, aquaculture innovation, and scientific research, with both sides agreeing to pursue a resilient framework for sustainable marine resource use.
A key outcome of the meeting was a commitment to conduct fisheries resource surveys using cutting-edge methods, alongside plans for policy collaboration, technical exchanges, and capacity-building initiatives. These efforts aim to improve aquaculture development in both nations, aligning with broader goals of food security and economic growth.
The Beijing talks build on a deepening relationship that has gained momentum since 2018, marked by high-level engagements and strategic agreements. Notably, Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio’s state visit to China in March 2024 resulted in a joint statement with China’s President Xi Jinping.
Friday’s session reflects a shared vision for sustainable fisheries management, rooted in trust and expertise. As China and Sierra Leone chart this new path, the partnership promises to deliver long-term benefits, enhancing livelihoods and strengthening bilateral ties for the future.
Sierra Leone is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean in the west. With such a large body water, marine life is rich thereby leading to a very large fishing industry. However, most fishermen have not been able to leverage this natural endowment since most use artisanal methods to carry their trade. The Ministry has been encouraging the artisanal fishermen to upgrade their skills and tools pledging to support the local industry.
