Monrovia – The Management of the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA) has officially announced the departure of three of its technical staff members to the People’s Republic of China to participate in a three-week intensive training program aimed at strengthening Liberia’s fisheries value chain.
The training, scheduled to run from July 12 to 31, 2025, will focus on “Value-Added Fishery Product Development and Market System Construction for Developing Countries” and will take place in Shanghai City, with additional study tours across several other cities in China, including Nanjing (Jiangsu Province), Guiyang, Tongren, Zunyi, and the Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture in Guizhou Province, said a NaFAA press release at the weekend.
The participating staff members represent three key technical departments within NaFAA: Magdlene K. Flomo, Manager, Fisheries Subsidies and Administration – Marine Fisheries Department, Tracy P. Cummings, Policy Planning Officer – Department of Policy, Planning and Investment and Prince G. Garkpah, Fisheries Inspector – Department of Monitoring, Control, and Surveillance (MCS).
According to a press release from NaFAA, the training opportunity is part of a broader initiative by the People’s Republic of China to support the sustainable development of Liberia’s fisheries sector through targeted capacity building, technology transfer, and knowledge exchange.
Speaking on the significance of the training, NaFAA’s Acting Director General, J. Cyrus Saygbe Sr., emphasized that the program is strategically aligned with NaFAA’s goals to enhance fish processing, quality control, and market access. “This initiative will not only improve the capacity of our staff but also boost the economic returns for local fishers and businesses along the fisheries value chain,” he stated.
Mr. Saygbe highlighted the long-term impact of such international cooperation:
“Empowering our fisheries staff with modern knowledge and techniques is a critical step in strengthening our local economy and improving livelihoods across coastal communities.”
he Acting Director General further outlined the key focus areas of the training, which include, but are not limited to, Training and Capacity Building, Technology Adoption, Market Linkages, and Quality Control and Certification
Participants will engage in both classroom sessions and hands-on practical training on modern fish processing techniques, post-harvest handling, packaging, and cold storage methods, designed to reduce losses and ensure product quality that meets international standards.
Mr. Saygbe also reflected on the growing partnership between NaFAA and the Chinese government, noting that shortly after his appointment in March 2025, the Authority held its inaugural meeting with the Chinese Ambassador to Liberia. During that engagement, the Ambassador reaffirmed China’s commitment to supporting Liberia’s fisheries sector through various development initiatives, including capacity-building programs such as this.
“The continued support from the Chinese government is a clear demonstration of their dedication to fostering sustainable development in Liberia’s fisheries industry,” Mr. Saygbe concluded.
NaFAA remains committed to building a world-class fisheries sector that supports economic growth, job creation, and environmental sustainability.