27th March 2024, Cairo, Egypt
In a significant move aimed at bolstering fisheries development, the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources of Sierra Leone has forged a strategic partnership with the Egyptian National Company for Fisheries and Aquaculture. The agreement was formalized during a high-level meeting held on Thursday, 21st March 2024, in Cairo, Egypt.
The Sierra Leonean delegation, led by Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Princess Dougba, and accompanied by Deputy Minister of Defence, Rtd. Col. Brima Muana Massaquoi, convened with Major General Waleed Hussin Abo Elmagd, General Manager of the National Service Project Organization (NSPO), to discuss the collaborative venture. Also present were representatives from both governments, including Lieutenant Colonel Jakey Mohamed Kabba, Commanding Officer of the Armed Forces Agricultural Unit, and Sheku Sei, Head of Division for Artisanal Fisheries and Aquaculture.
Central to the discussions was the establishment of an integrated fish city, encompassing facilities such as a fish meal factory and fish oil extraction plant, among others. This initiative aligns with Sierra Leone’s commitment to enhancing its fisheries sector and fostering economic growth.
General Walid Hussin Abo Elmagd and his team, comprising heads of various NSPO-affiliated companies, expressed readiness to strengthen trade relations and ensure compliance with the terms outlined in the agreement. The Sierra Leonean delegation also engaged with the leadership of the National Company for Aquaculture to address key issues pertinent to the partnership.
Minister Princess Dougba emphasized the strategic significance of the collaboration, highlighting its potential to advance food security initiatives and attract foreign investment through the “Feed Salone” program. Deputy Defence Minister Rtd. Col. Brima Muana Massaquoi commended Egypt’s regional leadership role and underscored the partnership’s potential to enhance bilateral trade and promote socio-economic development.
Bassem Mohamed, Managing Director of Sierra Fishing Company, hailed NSPO’s support in advancing fish farming and production in Sierra Leone, affirming the private sector’s commitment to the nation’s development goals.
The agreement, to be finalized between the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, the National Company for Fisheries and Aquaculture, and relevant stakeholders from both countries, marks a significant milestone in bilateral cooperation.
Sierra Leonean Ambassador to Cairo, His Excellency Sadiq Silla, lauded the collaborative efforts, emphasizing their pivotal role in advancing mutual interests. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries and representatives from NSPO-affiliated companies.
For further inquiries, please contact: Mohamed B. Kallon Information Attaché Sierra Leone Embassy in Cairo, Egypt Phone: +201104336127
