The Liberian capital, Monrovia, is set to host the 15th Ministerial Conference of the Fisheries Committee for West Central Gulf of Guinea (FCWC) from December 11th to 13th, 2024. This significant international fisheries conference is expected to draw over 80 international guests, with nearly half already arriving in anticipation of the event. The conference will bring together key figures in the fisheries sector, including government ministers from Nigeria, Ghana, Togo, Cote D’Ivoire, and Benin, as well as representatives from international organizations such as the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and various other fisheries-focused bodies. The event underscores the importance of regional collaboration and sustainable fisheries management within the West Central Gulf of Guinea.
The Liberian government, through the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA), is spearheading the organization of this pivotal conference. The three-day event will feature two technical sessions, focusing on critical issues related to fisheries management, conservation, and development within the region. The gathering of regional fisheries ministers, heads of regional fisheries management organizations, international fisheries institutions, and observers signifies the collective effort to address the challenges and opportunities within the sector. The conference serves as a platform for sharing best practices, discussing policy frameworks, and strengthening cooperation among stakeholders.
One of the key outcomes of the conference will be Liberia’s assumption of the Chairmanship of the FCWC. This transition of leadership from Ghana signifies Liberia’s growing role in shaping fisheries policies and promoting good governance within the subregion. The chairmanship offers Liberia the opportunity to further its national interests in sustainable fisheries development while contributing to the overall health and productivity of the West Central Gulf of Guinea’s marine resources. This leadership role will enable Liberia to actively influence regional strategies and advocate for responsible fishing practices.
The “Monrovia Declaration,” a resolution to be adopted during the conference, will mark a significant milestone in regional fisheries management. This declaration will serve as a testament to the commitment of participating nations and organizations to address the complex issues facing the fisheries sector. It will likely outline a shared vision for sustainable fisheries development, encompassing key principles of conservation, economic growth, and social equity. The Monrovia Declaration will provide a framework for future collaboration and action within the region.
The hosting of this prestigious international conference underscores Liberia’s dedication to promoting sustainable fisheries and its commitment to regional cooperation. The event not only provides a platform for dialogue and knowledge sharing but also strengthens Liberia’s position as a key player in the West Central Gulf of Guinea’s fisheries landscape. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, the conference aims to foster a collective understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the sector and to develop collaborative solutions for the future.
The conference is expected to delve into a range of crucial topics, including combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, promoting sustainable aquaculture practices, enhancing fisheries data collection and analysis, and addressing the impacts of climate change on fish stocks and fishing communities. The deliberations and outcomes of the conference will have far-reaching implications for the long-term health and sustainability of the region’s fisheries resources and the livelihoods of those who depend on them. The “Monrovia Declaration” will likely encapsulate these discussions and set the stage for future actions and collaborations.
