Sierra Leone’s Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Princess Dougba, and Deputy Minister of Defence, Rtd. Col. Brima Muana Massaquoi, met with Major General Waleed Hussin Abo Elmagd, General Manager of the National Service Project Organization (NSPO) in Egypt on Thursday, March 21st, 2024.

The purpose of the visit was to discuss the development of an integrated fish city in Sierra Leone. This project would include a fish meal factory, fish oil extraction facilities, and other related services.

The agreement is seen as a way to boost Sierra Leone’s fish production and contribute to the country’s “Feed Salone” program. The project will be a public-private partnership between the governments of Sierra Leone and Egypt, as well as Sierra Leone’s private sector.

Sierra Leone’s Deputy Defence Minister praised Egypt’s role in the region, particularly regarding the crisis in the Gaza Strip. He said the partnership would benefit both countries through increased trade and development.

Bassem Mohamed, Managing Director of Sierra Fishing Company, expressed his appreciation for NSPO’s support in developing Sierra Leone’s fishing industry. He said his company is committed to supporting the government in achieving its goals.

Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Egypt, His Excellency Sadiq Silla, said the embassy is playing a key role in facilitating this cooperation. He expressed his belief that the collaboration will be successful.

The agreement is expected to be sealed soon between the relevant ministries and private sector entities from both countries.