Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources Addresses Alleged Mismanagement of 7,000 Bags of Rice

The Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Princess Dugba, has responded to allegations of mismanagement regarding the distribution of rice consignments intended for fishermen and women across coastal communities in Sierra Leone.

In February 2025, the ministry implemented a closed season to protect the country’s rich fisheries and marine resources, accompanied by various support initiatives for local fishermen and women.

To ease the burden of this initiative, the ministry organized activities including sensitization programs, payment of stipends, provision of mobile healthcare, a football gala, and the distribution of rice. However, following the conclusion of what many have described as an “unprecedented and successful initiative,” rumors regarding the effectiveness of the rice distribution began circulating, particularly on social media.

“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,” the minister stated.

“As minister, I work very hard to fulfill our promises to the fishermen and women in the coastal communities. We have established modalities for when we stop the fishermen from artisanal fishing, and the rice consignments were intended to reduce their burden.”

The minister explained that the ministry had proposed shipping 7,000 bags of rice to Sierra Leone in January; however, this did not materialize. “I was worried because we had initially promised the fishermen a supply of rice in February. The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources and the Ministry of Trade met to explore how they could assist us.”

The government proposed that the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources engage with anyone who had large rice consignments available at that time to meet the deadline. After discussions with a rice dealer, the ministry successfully received 7,000 bags of rice, albeit later than initially planned. The minister confirmed that there are still remaining rice supplies to be distributed next year.

While acknowledging the constraints in acquiring the rice, the minister emphasized the ministry’s commitment to supporting the fishing community and ensuring they receive the assistance promised.