Saturday, 12 October 2024 marks a significant milestone in the advancement of the fishing and aquaculture sectors between the Republic of Sierra Leone and the Arab Republic of Egypt.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed, outlining a framework for deepening cooperation in the fields of fishing, aquaculture, and trading. This agreement seeks to foster collaboration, enhance sustainable practices, and leverage shared expertise to benefit both nations.

The MoU was jointly signed by Princess Dougba, Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Government of the Republic of Sierra Leone, and General Islam Abdel Hamid Attia Rayan, the head, Chairman of Board of Directors and CEO of the National Company for Fisheries and Aquaculture (NCFA) of the National Service Projects Organization (NSPO) of the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

Representing Sierra Leone also, were, Muana Brima Massaquoi, Deputy Minister of Defence, Government of Sierra Leone, Sadiq Silla, Sierra Leone Ambassador to Cairo, pushing President Bio’s policy on Economic Diplomacy. The Egyptian side, was represented by Major General Nasser Saleh, Deputy Head of the National Company for Fisheries and Aquaculture and Brigadier General Bassam Mohamed, head of planning Sector, NCFA, and Major General Adel Rashed, head of Human Resources, NCFA.

In addition, the private sector was represented by Bassem Jamil Sahid Mohamed, Managing Director, Sierra Fishing Company.

The Memorandum outlines several key objectives aimed at promoting, sustainable fishing practices and enhancing trade opportunities such as improvement of post harvest handling and value addition of fish and fish products, Enhanced Cooperation to establish a collaborative framework for knowledge sharing and best practices in the fishing that promotes aquaculture sectors. Commit to sustainable fishing methods to ensure the longevity and health of marine resources.Capacity Building, that facilitates training programs and capacity-building initiatives for stakeholders in both countries. Explore opportunities for mutual access to markets, fostering growth and expansion of fishing and aquaculture trade. Installing monitoring systems on fishing vessels. Promote joint research initiatives to advance aquaculture technologies and techniques.

In her statement, Princess Dugba, Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Sierra Leone, said, “Today marks a landmark moment for Sierra Leone as we reach at this new chapter of cooperation in the fishing and aquaculture sectors. This MoU with the Arab Republic of Egypt is not just a signature on paper; it is a commitment to President Bio’s vision for sustainable practices, shared knowledge, and mutual growth. Together, we all supported the planning and coordination, From the Embassy of Sierra Leone in Cairo, who facilitated it, to the Ministry of Defence, under whose canopy we are here, also to Bassem, Jemil, whose invaluable logistical support was invaluable, we will enhance our fishing industries, enrich livelihoods, and ensure food security for our people. I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead as we work hand-in-hand to realize our vision for sustainable fisheries.”

For his part. General Islam Attia, Head of NCFA, Egypt, said, “This MOU symbolizes our joint commitment to fostering collaboration in the fishing and aquaculture sectors between our two nations. Today, we lay the foundations for a partnership that will promote sustainable practices and enhance trade opportunities. It is imperative that we work together to harness our resources wisely, ensuring that future generations can thrive. I look forward to the fruitful outcomes of this collaboration, benefiting not only our countries but also enhancing the resilience of our communities.”

Following the signing of this MoU, the parties will work on establishing an implementation plan that includes specific initiatives, timelines, and performance indicators. Regular consultations and progress assessments will be held to ensure that the objectives of the MoU are met effectively.

The signing of this MOU represents a pivotal moment in the cooperation and economic diplomacy between the Republic of Sierra Leone and the Arab Republic of Egypt. As both countries embark on this journey together, the potential for growth, sustainability, and prosperity in the fishing and aquaculture sectors is immense. The collaboration epitomizes a commitment to shared resources and mutual advancement, ultimately benefiting the peoples of both nations