Sierra Leone Takes A Step Towards Fisheries Transparency

Sierra Leone is the latest country to join the Fisheries Transparency Initiative (FiTI). The Minister of Fisheries, Princess Dugba, conveyed this by sending an official letter to FiTI’s top executive on September 20. Sierra Leone, which is in the Atlantic with tuna-rich waters, has artisanal and industrial vessels fishing in its territorial EEZ. Since 2010, distant water tuna boats have been increasing catches in this EEZ. The West African nation has agreements with several nations, including China. According to a report published by Mongabay in May 2024, IUU fishing incidents continued throughout 2023 in Sierra Leone’s waters despite authorities’ claims that the practice has largely been eliminated.

In the letter, the Minister stated that she understands the critical importance of making fisheries data and information publicly accessible. This will help to improve decision-making processes and enhance the trust of stakeholders including investors, vessel operations, the private sector, and local and international partners, read the FiTI statement.