His Excellency Dr. Lansana Gberie, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Sierra Leone to Geneva, Switzerland, has officially deposited the Instrument of Acceptance for the World Trade Organization (WTO) Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies. This significant event took place in the presence of Madam Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the WTO.

During the ceremony, Ambassador Gberie expressed profound gratitude to the WTO for its steadfast support and collaboration on matters crucial to Sierra Leone’s development. He underscored that the ratification of the agreement represents a major stride towards sustainable development and responsible resource management, aligning seamlessly with Sierra Leone’s Medium-Term National Development Plan (2024-2030).

Sierra Leone, a coastal nation that relies heavily on its marine resources, has long faced challenges stemming from overfishing and illegal fishing practices. Since 2018, the government has undertaken significant efforts to combat these issues, aiming to curtail the harmful subsidies from wealthier WTO member states that exacerbate overfishing.

By ratifying the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, Sierra Leone reaffirms its dedication to international cooperation for sustainable fisheries. This commitment includes the elimination of subsidies that contribute to overfishing and illegal fishing, thereby promoting environmentally responsible and economically viable fishing practices.

Ambassador Gberie highlighted the critical importance of multilateralism, sustainability, and conservation within Sierra Leone’s national policies. He urged other nations, particularly African and small coastal states, to ratify the agreement and engage in further negotiations to enhance global fisheries management.

Madam Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the WTO, commended Sierra Leone’s unwavering commitment to responsible fisheries management. She noted that with Sierra Leone’s acceptance, 80 WTO members have now ratified the agreement, with 30 more needed for it to enter into force. Her remarks underscored the global significance of this agreement in promoting sustainable fishing practices and protecting marine ecosystems.

For Sierra Leone, this landmark achievement in ratifying the fisheries agreement is a testament to its commitment to multilateralism, sustainability, and the fair and responsible exploitation of natural resources. The Minister of Trade and Industry, Honourable Alpha Sesay, played a pivotal role in pushing the ratification forward, with the full endorsement and support of His Excellency, President Julius Maada Bio, ensuring its successful adoption by the government.

The ceremony was attended by key officials including Mr. Edward Kawa, Head of Chancery, Mr. Robert Koroma, Minister Counsellor and Advisor to the Ambassador and Permanent Representative, and Mrs. Essate Weldemichael, who provided technical support.

The World Trade Organization, a UN-affiliated organization with 164 member states, has three main functions: negotiating trade deals, monitoring trade practices, and settling disputes. This agreement marks a significant step towards sustainable global fisheries management, reinforcing the principles of fair trade and environmental stewardship.