Freetown Fishermen Threaten Demonstration Over Unmet Promises Amid Fishing Ban

Local fishermen in key wharfs across Freetown are gearing up for a peaceful protest against the government’s failure to uphold promises made to support them during the fishing ban in February.

The fishermen claim that the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources pledged to provide each of them with a bag of rice and Nle1000 in exchange for their compliance with the fishing freeze designed to help restore fish stocks.

According to a Public Notice from the Ministry, effective February 1-28, 2025, the fishing season has been closed to observe a biological resting period for the fish populations. However, many local fishers are expressing deep concern about their livelihoods being jeopardized during this time.

Gbessay Sesay, a fisherman at Mabof Wharf in Portee, articulated the frustrations of his community: “From now till Friday, if the promised bag of rice and Nle1000 are not delivered, we will take to the streets in demonstration. This will be a significant protest involving major wharfs like Tombo and Goderich, as we have discussed already.”

He emphasized the hardships faced, citing the detrimental impact on families reliant on fishing income.

Further complicating the issue, Sesay highlighted what he perceives as favoritism towards foreign-owned trawlers who continue fishing unchecked while artisanal fishermen struggle to make ends meet. He pointed to the drop in fish populations, attributing it to the rising plastic waste contaminating their waters.

Fellow fisherman Gibril Sesay of Moa Wharf reinforced this sentiment, lamenting that citizens depend on fishing to provide for their children’s education and basic needs. He also acknowledged the environmental threats posed by pollution but stressed the importance of equitable treatment from the government.

Fish monger Kadiatu Bangura expressed her despair over the ban’s implications for her family, unsure how she will afford to feed her children during this restrictive month.

However, Sheku Sie, the Acting Director of Fisheries, indicated that the Ministry has set up livelihood supports for fishermen nationwide. Sie disputed claims of the Nle1000 and bag of rice offer, clarifying that the Ministry is providing a lesser support sum of Nle500, which has already begun in Tombo.

Thomas Turay, President of the Tombo Fishermen Association, confirmed the receipt of funds but voiced disappointment at the turnout, insisting that Nle500 is insufficient and that the assistance has only reached those with licensed fishing boats.