Under former President George Weah’s Administration, the Liberian government, through the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA), in collaboration with the University of Liberia and development partners, launched a transformative $1.8 million project to construct two key facilities for fisheries science at the University of Liberia's Fendell campus. This initiative, supported by the World Bank under the Liberia Sustainable Management of Fisheries Project (LSMFP), aims to enhance the nation’s fisheries sector by equipping students with practical skills and knowledge [1][2].
The project includes an academic building, constructed by Mak Enterprises Inc., and a dormitory, built by Bitar Construction Company, both awarded through a competitive bidding process. The dormitory features 14 bedrooms per floor across two stories, while the academic building will serve as a hub for fisheries education and research. These facilities are set to bolster Liberia’s capacity for sustainable fisheries management [2][4].
President Weah's administration did not just talk about change; it actively pursued it. By securing World Bank funding under the Liberia Sustainable Management of Fisheries Project (LSMFP), the government demonstrated its ability to attract international support for its developmental agenda. This project is a clear indication of Weah's foresight in recognizing the untapped potential of Liberia's vast coastline and rich marine resources14.
The launch of Liberia's first-ever Fisheries Science degree program in January 2023 marked the beginning of this educational revolution. Now, with the imminent completion of these dedicated facilities, Weah's vision is taking tangible form. This initiative is not just about education; it's about creating a new generation of Liberian experts capable of managing the nation's marine wealth sustainably35.
During the groundbreaking ceremony on July 28, 2023, the Deputy Director General of NaFAA, Hon. Augustine Manoballah, emphasized that this milestone reflects President George Weah’s vision of empowering Liberia’s youth through education in critical sectors like fisheries. He credited the World Bank’s financial backing with helping realize this dream and called for continued support to sustain the program[1][4].
Similarly, the acting World Bank country manager, Mack Cape-Hart Mulbah, emphasized the project's broader benefits, including job creation, improved fisheries management, and enhanced livelihoods. The World Bank also plans further investments in processing facilities, cold storage infrastructure, and modern fishing equipment to strengthen Liberia’s fisheries value chain[2][4].
Dr. Sarwolo Nelson Jr., then President of the University of Liberia, also expressed gratitude for this historic step toward academic excellence and national development. He noted that these facilities would position Liberia as a regional fisheries science and governance leader while addressing food security and economic challenges[1][3].
President Weah's approach to development was holistic. He recognized that actual progress comes from nurturing human capital alongside physical infrastructure. This project exemplifies his administration's commitment to building Liberia's capacity from within, fostering a new cadre of professionals who will drive the country's growth for decades.
This project is not just about buildings; it's about building dreams and opportunities for countless Liberians. As the project approaches its final stages and Weah is no longer at the helm of power, many Liberians hope that President Joseph Boakai's administration pays keen attention to the sector and continues the pace of development.
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https://maritimafrica.com/en/liberian-fisheries-degree-program-gaining-international-boost/
https://fcwc-fish.org/other-news/liberia-nafaa-ul-and-others-begin-3-day-workshop-panel-discussion-todayWeah-Led NAAFAA Project at the University of Liberia Campus Hits 98% CompletionWeah-Led NAAFAA Project at the University of Liberia Campus Hits 98% Completion
https://ul.edu.lr/new/ul-nafaa-break-grounds-for-fishery-center-of-excellence/
https://projects.worldbank.org/en/projects-operations/procurement-detail/OP00260862
https://thenewdawnliberia.com/ul-and-nafaa-launch-bachelors-degree-program-in-fisheries/Weah-Led NAAFAA Project at the University of Liberia Campus Hits 98% Completion
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