By: Joseph Momoh, Reporter D.S
Princess Dugba, the Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, has responded to allegations of mismanagement concerning the distribution of rice consignments intended for fishermen and women in coastal communities across Sierra Leone.
In February 2025, the ministry initiated a closed season to protect the country’s valuable fisheries and marine resources, implementing various support measures for local fishing communities. These measures included sensitization programs, stipend payments, mobile healthcare provision, a football gala, and the distribution of rice.
Following what many have described as an “unprecedented and successful initiative,” rumors began to circulate, particularly on social media, questioning the effectiveness of the rice distribution. In response, the minister stated, “Everyone received their rice. The entire ministry was involved in the distribution. The fishermen were very happy with the consignments. Everything the government promised was delivered to the people, including their rice, stipends, and medical check-ups.”
Dugba emphasized her commitment to fulfilling promises made to fishermen and women. “As minister, I work very hard to fulfill our promises to the fishermen and women in the coastal communities,” she noted, explaining the procedures established during the closed season to alleviate the economic burden on local fishermen.
The minister elaborated on the procurement process, detailing that the ministry proposed shipping 7,000 bags of rice to Sierra Leone in January; however, this plan did not materialize as expected. “I was worried because we had initially promised the fishermen a supply of rice in February,” Dugba recounted. She explained that both the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources and the Ministry of Trade convened to explore alternative solutions.
After engaging with a rice dealer, the ministry successfully secured 7,000 bags of rice, although the delivery was later than initially planned. The minister confirmed that there are still remaining rice supplies to be distributed next year.
While acknowledging the challenges faced in acquiring the rice, Princess Dugba reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to support the fishing community, ensuring that they receive the assistance promised.
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