Monrovia – The Government of Liberia has commissioned a newly built semi-industrial fiberglass fishing vessel as part of its efforts to modernize the fisheries sector and strengthen economic growth under the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development. The commissioning ceremony of the vessel ( The Sea King) marks the completion of a major milestone in the implementation of the World Bank-funded Liberia Sustainable Management of Fisheries Project (LSMFP), under the National Fisheries & Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA).
By Jerry Gaye, contributing writer
The Sea King, designed and built by SeaPride Marine Engineering LLC in Sur, Oman, was officially received by Liberia’s FV Sea King, marking a groundbreaking moment for both Liberia and Oman.
Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung, who represented President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., at the ceremony, highlighted the Unity Party administration’s commitment to transforming Liberia’s coastal economy.
According to the Vice President, his Boss could not attend the ceremony due to international engagements, but reaffirmed his strong interest in revitalizing the fisheries sector. VP Koung emphasized that the commissioning of the country’s first semi-industrial fishing vessel marks a proud moment in the country’s journey towards inclusive development, something he said is more than an addition to the national fleet, symbolizing Liberia’s renewed determination to tap into its vast marine resources.
Vice President Koung mentioned that the vessel, will support “increased fish harvests, reduce dependence on imported fish,” and ensure that more wealth generated from Liberian waters remains within local communities.
In one of the day’s most significant announcements, the government revealed a nationwide reduction in the annual fisheries licensing fees, effective January 1, 2026. Under the new structure, VP Koung said canoe operators will pay US$30 annually, while motorized canoes, ranging from 1 to 15 horsepower, will be charged US$175. Larger vessels, between 16 to 40 horsepower, will pay US$350. He noted that the reductions demonstrate the government’s ability to listen to its people.
“The President is hereby directing the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA) to put in place the necessary modalities to ensure that these new fees are well communicated and implemented effectively across all coastal counties,” he added.
According to him, the government’s move aims to ease the financial burden on fishermen, many of whom have long appealed for lower fees. “For many years, our fishermen have asked for relief, and today, their voices have been heard.”
The Liberian Vice President noted that the “Rescue government” views the fisheries sector as a low-hanging fruit for food security, job creation, and sustainable economic development, adding that with proper policies, infrastructure, and partnerships, the sector can become a major driver of national growth.
He concluded by thanking Liberia’s Development partners, especially the World Bank, for its continued confidence in the UP-led Government and the people of Liberia, emphasizing that the Bank’s support has been instrumental in making the day possible. He also thanked the fishermen and women for their resilience and contribution to national food security, stating that the commissioning of the vessel marks a new chapter for the sector. “Fishing is not just a livelihood, it is a pathway to prosperity,” he noted, calling on Liberians to take full advantage of opportunities in the blue economy.
Also speaking, World Bank Country Manager, Madam Georgia Wallen, praised Liberia’s renewed momentum in the fisheries sector, describing the commissioning of the Sea King as “an exciting and momentous milestone.” She noted that the sector is visibly “on the rise,” reflecting strong government ownership and effective partnership with development partners.
She emphasized that the new vessel is more than a launch event—it represents a broader step toward economic transformation under the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development. Madam Wallen highlighted Liberia’s vision of a modern, investment-ready, and inclusive fisheries sector capable of creating jobs, fostering innovation, and expanding partnerships with the private sector.
According to her, the Sea King, which she described as a national asset, was made possible through collaboration between the Government of Liberia and the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA) under the Sustainable Management of Fisheries Project.
She commended NaFAA’s leadership and technical staff for their dedication, saying it demonstrates what is possible when communities, government, and partners unite around a common vision.
Following her remarks, NaFAA’s Board Chairman and Agriculture Minister, Dr. Alexander Nutah, described the commissioning ceremony as the dawn of a new era in the country’s fisheries sector. He said the fiberglass vessel marks a major technological advancement, offering safer, more durable, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective alternatives to traditional wooden canoes.
The Minister explained that the new vessels will help Liberia’s artisanal fishermen to expand their range, increase their catch, and improve their incomes while adhering to sustainable practices. He stressed that the initiative bridges the long-standing divide between artisanal and industrial fishing by creating a semi-industrial fleet.
He concluded by urging NaFAA’s management to ensure that the project remains economically viable and environmentally sustainable. The commissioning of the Sea King, he said, symbolizes Liberia’s collective aspiration for a prosperous and resilient fisheries sector driven by partnership, innovation, and responsible management.
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