Fishing for profit

The largest fishing grounds for shrimp in West Africa - along with tuna, snapper, mackeral, lobster and crab mean that Sierra Leone fishing can make a considerable contribution to the economy.

Last year the sector contributed more than $2million and is expected to increase this year making fisheries the next biggest income generator to diamonds.

Plans have been drawn up for a central fishing harbour complex at Freetown and government is looking for $44million to build the complex. Interest has already been shown from Iran who may provide almost half of the cost.

Small scale fishing plays a significant role in feeding the population. Export Development and Investment Corporation (SLEDIC) established a pilot fish project for the Goderich fishing co-operativer, which not only benefits the fishermen but also the fishing communities of Adonkia, Lakka and Sussex. The first smoke oven complex, an Altona Oven, was constructed in Goderich (pictured left).

There are plans for the scheme to be expanded to other large fishing communities and areas to be targeted include Mahera, Yeleboya, Conakri Dee, Tombo, Shenge, Bonthe an Sulima.

 

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