Government Confirms $55m Black Johnson Fishing Harbour Construction Underway
Sahid Bangura Construction of the $55 million Julius Maada Bio Industrial Fishing Harbour at Black Johnson has commenced, with the project expected to provide new infrastructure for Sierra Leone’s industrial fishing sector.
Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources Princess Dugba disclosed the development during the Civic Day USA Edition in New York, where she outlined the Government’s plans for the fisheries sector.
Dugba said the project is being funded through a grant from the People’s Republic of China but clarified that the grant will not be transferred to the Sierra Leone Government as cash.
Instead, she explained, the Chinese side will finance the implementation of the project through a contractor engaged to execute the works.
The planned harbour will include a jetty, waste management facilities, a marine house and a fish market, creating infrastructure intended to support industrial fishing and strengthen fisheries management.
Dugba also disclosed that a temporary jetty is expected to be completed within two months to accommodate large fishing vessels while construction of the main harbour continues.
The project will also provide space for artisanal fishermen, while the Government is considering replacing wooden canoes with fibreglass boats as part of efforts to improve safety.
According to the Minister, the harbour is expected to create opportunities in boat construction and repair, employment and technical services, while contributing to the development of Sierra Leone’s blue economy and increasing fisheries-related revenue.
The project formed part of the wider development updates presented by senior government officials during the New York edition of the Civic Day Series.