By Kadijatu Bangura, Reporter D.S
Bonthe – December 1, 2025 – In preparation for the upcoming Closed Season, the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources has actively engaged fishermen and fishmongers in the southern region, with recent meetings held in Bonthe, Gbondapi, and Sulima.
The outreach initiative, which follows similar efforts in the Western region, marks a significant step toward promoting sustainable management and good governance in Sierra Leone’s fisheries sector. During these meetings, Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Princess Dugba, emphasized the importance of the forthcoming Closed Season Programme, set to commence in February next year. She highlighted the need for community members to renounce illegal fishing practices and embrace responsible, sustainable fisheries management.
Minister Dugba commended local stakeholders for their compliance with regulations during the previous year’s Closed Season, which aims to allow fish stocks to replenish and prevent over-exploitation. She warned against the misuse of natural resources, including forests and mangroves, and announced plans in collaboration with the African Development Bank to provide training and alternative livelihood opportunities for women in the fishing sector.
Assuring community members of a successful Closed Season, the Minister encouraged them to support the ministry’s objectives moving forward. Permanent Secretary Brima Kebbie, who chaired the sessions, reinforced the importance of stakeholder engagement in furthering the ministry’s efforts in promoting legal and sustainable fishing practices.
Community representatives expressed gratitude for the ministry’s engagement, recognizing the Closed Season initiative as a vital management tool for fostering sustainable fisheries. They requested the restoration of the ministry’s Outstations and the provision of essential fishing gear to enhance their livelihoods.
The warm reception for the minister and her team, marked by singing, drumming, and dancing, underscored the communities’ commitment to supporting government initiatives aimed at streamlining the fisheries sector effectively.
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