EU, Liberia Celebrate 50 Years of Partnership with Exciting Fisheries Event
The Environmental Justice Foundation (EJF), an organization implementing the European Union-funded Communities fisheries project, has concluded a day-long community event commemorating the EU and Liberia's 50 years of partnership, with hundreds of fishermen competing for prizes.
The event, held in Robersport, Grand Cape Mount County, brought together fishermen, government officials, and representatives from the European Union and EJF to commemorate the long-standing collaboration between the two countries. The event was not only a celebration but also an opportunity to promote sustainable fishing practices and environmental conservation.
Fishermen from various communities participated in a competition to determine the “Best Fisherman” in two categories: traditional fishing techniques and modern sustainable methods.
The traditional category aimed at preserving cultural heritage while emphasizing responsible fishing practices. The event also highlighted the European Union's support for Liberia’s fishing industry and marine ecosystem protection.
Through initiatives like the Communities for Fisheries project, Liberia has made significant progress in promoting responsible fishing practices, combating illegal fishing, and improving the livelihoods of local communities dependent on fisheries.
During the event, participants engaged in discussions and workshops focused on sustainable fishing practices. Experts from EJF shared their knowledge on managing fish stocks sustainably, reducing bycatch, and protecting vulnerable marine species.
Nona Deprez, EU Ambassador and Head of Delegation of the European Union to Liberia, emphasized the EU's commitment to Liberia's peace, development, good governance, and human rights. She acknowledged the progress made in the 50-year partnership but also highlighted the need for ongoing work.
According to her, the partnership between the EU and Liberia is a lasting deal because many governments have come and gone both in Europe and Liberia.
“As we celebrate the progress brought about by our 50 years of partnership, we must also acknowledge that more work needs to be done,” she added.
Deprez lauded citizens in the just-ended 2023 Liberian elections for participating in a peaceful, democratically free, and fair election.
“This is the moment for all Liberians to celebrate the proud and long-standing tradition of a free society that provides a more conducive environment for investments and increased tourism by contributing to increased development and job creation,” she said.
Cephas Asare, West Africa Regional Manager of the Environmental Justice Foundation, expressed appreciation for the EU Delegation for their support in empowering fishing communities to address illegal fishing activities and improve their livelihoods. The event concluded with a boat race, and winners were awarded medals, life jackets, and other materials from the European Union.
“This event spotlights the importance of fisheries on the food security and livelihood of Liberians and the EU’s commitment to developing sustainable, legal, and healthy fisheries in Liberia,” he said.
The event climaxed with a boat race. Two winners from Robertsport and one from Tailor Kru Town emerged from the race and were awarded. Joe Nagbe’s team from Tailor Kru Town was the first winner, coming first in two separate races, while Deeper Paul’s team from Robertsport finished as the second winner. Marcus Boyah and Sensee Perry were the joint third-place winners.
The three winners were awarded medals, branded life jackets, and other materials from the European Union.
The event spotlighted the significance of fisheries to Liberia’s food security and livelihoods while showcasing the EU’s commitment to developing sustainable and legal fisheries in the country.