PHOTO: Fisheries Investment Conference official preparations
Monrovia, Liberia – The Government of Liberian through the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA) has officially launched preparations for the 2026 International Fisheries Investment Conference, a landmark global event scheduled for March 30–31, 2026, a NaFAA press release says.
The announcement was made Tuesday December 9, 2025 by J. Cyrus Saygbe Sr., during a major press conference hosted at the Headquarters of the Liberian Fisheries Authority on Bushrod Island.
According a NaFAA Press Release, the launch marks the beginning of a transformative journey aimed at repositioning Liberia’s fisheries sector as a competitive, modern, and investment-ready industry. The 2026 conference the Release added will convene international investors, innovators, policymakers, technology providers, development partners, and sector leaders committed to advancing sustainable fisheries and aquaculture.
Additionally, Mr. Saygbe noted that while the fisheries sector is vital to national food security and economic livelihood, it is presently “surviving rather than progressing.” He emphasized that under the leadership of His Excellency President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr., the Government of Liberia has prioritized the diversification of NaFAA’s revenue base, shifting from reliance on industrial fishing licenses to more sustainable and dependable financing streams.
Moreover, Mr. Saygbe mentioned that to drive this shift, NaFAA has developed a comprehensive Resource Mobilization Strategy, with the Fisheries Investment Conference serving as a central pillar. The conference will act as a catalyst for unlocking investment opportunities, stimulating innovation, and building long-term partnerships essential to the sector’s modernization.
In preparation for 2026, NaFAA is also developing key long-term strategic instruments, including, a 10-Year Fisheries Strategic Plan, a Fisheries Investment Plan, and a National Aquaculture Strategy.
The Liberian Fisheries Acting Director General indicated that “these documents are expected to be formally launched during the conference and they will guide the sector’s priorities over the next decade, emphasizing sustainable growth, private-sector participation, and community empowerment”.
At the same time, NaFAA has competitively recruited Golden Touch Corporation to lead the preparation and execution of the conference. In the coming weeks, the firm will engage national and international stakeholders across the value chain, collecting insights that will inform the conference program, exhibitions, investment showcases, and policy dialogues.
Mr. Saygbe called on all stakeholders including government institutions, development partners, private investors, fishers’ associations, community groups, and innovators to actively participate in the consultative processes.
“Your contributions will be vital in identifying investable opportunities, strengthening sector systems, and designing innovative solutions that promote sustainable fisheries and aquaculture development,” he noted.
Meanwhile, early registration for the conference opens today, and NaFAA encourages all interested organizations and individuals to secure their participation and be part of a transformative process that will position Liberia’s fisheries sector for accelerated growth and long-term resilience.
Mr. Saygbe concluded by expressing appreciation to all partners for their commitment and support stating “Together, we can build a future where Liberia’s fisheries resources generate greater value, create sustainable jobs, and remain a cornerstone of national prosperity for generations to come.”