World Bank Liberia Country Manager Georgia Wallen has said the commissioning of the Sea King vessel, which is boosting investments in artisanal fishing and NAFAA’s institutional capacity, is far more than the launch of a vessel.
By Augustus D.R Bortue- augustusbortue@yahoo. com
The initiative is being sponsored by the World Bank.
According to World Bank Liberia Country Manager Wallen, it signals a broader step in the economic transformation ambition that is at the heart of the ARREST Agenda for Economic Development (AAID).
She said Liberia aims to develop a thriving, investment-ready fisheries sector that can deliver jobs, innovation and partnerships with the private sector.
Making remarks on Monday, November 24, 2025 at ceremony marking the commissioning of the Sea King Vessel, she pointed out that, ‘‘building on the investments in artisanal fishing and NAFAA’s institutional capacity, the Sea King marks an important step in developing Liberia’s semi-industrial segment.’’
‘‘This progress must move in full harmony with artisanal fishers and coastal communities, which will always be the backbone of the coastal economy. The Sea King is a national asset of Liberia. We are delighted that it has been made possible through the strong partnership between the Government of Liberia and the World Bank through the Sustainable Management of Fisheries project,’’ the World Bank Liberia Country Manager stated.
She asserted that it reflects shared ‘‘our focus to building a modern, well-regulated and inclusive industry’’.
She said the commissioning is a step towards a long-term vision of a thriving fisheries sector with safe, secure, profitable artisanal fishing complemented by semi-industrial fishing, stressing that both have a role in helping Liberians to harness the country’s immense marine resources in a sustainable manner.
‘‘The fisheries sector has much more potential to increase food security in Liberia while nurturing an export industry that can help feed the region, the Continent, and the world,’’ the World Bank Liberia Country Manager intimated.
She highlighted some keys to realizing Liberia’s ambitious vision:
First, sustained investment in infrastructure, innovation, and skills to empower fishers—especially women and youth—to benefit from job opportunities and fully participate in Liberia’s Blue Transformation.
Second, continued efforts to strengthen NAFAA’s institutional capacity. This is key for effective monitoring and surveillance to ensure safety at sea for all artisanal fishers and industrial vessels. The goal is to ensure accountability, data-driven management, and responsible fisheries management through the enforcement of fair, even-handed regulations.
Third, a strong commitment to inclusive stakeholder engagement and communication. This will bring together the Government, artisanal fishers, the private sector, coastal communities, and development partners for decision-making that is transparent, participatory, and grounded in local realities.
Meanwhile, Madam Wallen said promoting partnerships that link private commercial operators with artisanal fishers through shared infrastructure, value-chain development, and skills transfer.
She mentioned that NAFAA plays an essential role in ensuring that private investment can drive economic growth to create jobs, opportunity, and a path to shared prosperity.
She then recognized NAFAA’s leadership and longstanding dedication as well as the excellent work of NaFAA’s technical teams.
‘‘Your efforts demonstrate what is possible when government, communities, and development partners come together around a shared vision.’’
‘‘Many thanks also to the World Bank team and Liberia’s development partners to their commitment to Liberia’s success in the fisheries sector. Hearty congratulations to the people of Liberia on this new national asset, the Sea King! We join you in celebrating this important milestone,’’ she added.
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