Published: July 11, 2025
FREEPORT, Bushrod Island — The National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA) has announced the departure of three technical staff members to the People’s Republic of China for a three-week intensive training program aimed at strengthening Liberia’s fisheries value chain.
The training, scheduled for July 12–31, will focus on “Value-Added Fishery Product Development and Market System Construction for Developing Countries.” It will take place in Shanghai, with study tours in Nanjing (Jiangsu Province), Guiyang, Tongren, Zunyi, and the Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture in Guizhou Province.
The participating staff members represent three key technical departments at NaFAA: Magdlene K. Flomo, manager of Fisheries Subsidies and Administration in the Marine Fisheries Department; Tracy P. Cummings, policy planning officer in the Department of Policy, Planning and Investment; and Prince G. Garkpah, fisheries inspector in the Department of Monitoring, Control, and Surveillance (MCS).
According to a NaFAA press release, the training is part of a broader initiative by the Chinese government to support the sustainable development of Liberia’s fisheries sector through capacity building, technology transfer, and knowledge exchange.
NaFAA Acting Director General J. Cyrus Saygbe Sr. said the training aligns with the authority’s strategic goals of enhancing fish processing, quality control, and market access.
“This initiative will not only improve the capacity of our staff but also boost the economic returns for local fishers and businesses along the fisheries value chain,” Saygbe said.
He added that empowering fisheries staff with modern techniques is essential for strengthening the local economy and improving livelihoods in coastal communities.
Saygbe outlined the training’s core focus areas, including training and capacity building, technology adoption, market linkages, and quality control and certification. Participants will engage in classroom sessions and hands-on instruction in modern fish processing techniques, post-harvest handling, packaging, and cold storage, with an emphasis on reducing losses and ensuring product quality that meets international standards.
Saygbe also highlighted NaFAA’s growing partnership with China, noting that shortly after his appointment in March 2025, the agency held its first meeting with the Chinese ambassador to Liberia. During that meeting, the ambassador reaffirmed China’s commitment to supporting Liberia’s fisheries sector through development initiatives such as this.
“The continued support from the Chinese government is a clear demonstration of their dedication to fostering sustainable development in Liberia’s fisheries industry,” Saygbe said.
NaFAA reaffirmed its commitment to building a world-class fisheries sector that supports economic growth, job creation, and environmental sustainability.
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