Executive Summary
The Third Quarter Report 2025 of the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA) of the Republic of Liberia provides an integrated assessment of the institution’s operational performance, financial execution, and strategic reforms from July to September 2025. The quarter reflects deeper institutional maturity and measurable progress toward sustainable fisheries management and blue economy transformation.
Governance and Policy Reforms
NaFAA’s Board of Directors formalized critical sector reforms, including the Semi-Industrial Fisheries Management Plan (FMP) providing a scientific basis for sustainable exploitation of pelagic and demersal stocks. The Department of Environment and Climate Change was created to embed climate resilience in fisheries planning. Canoe licensing fees were reduced to strengthen artisanal fisher compliance, while export and operational fees were adjusted to improve sector competitiveness.
Marine Surveillance and Compliance
Monitoring, Control, and Surveillance (MCS) capacity was modernized through the Quartermaster System, enabling live offshore monitoring within Liberia’s Exclusive Economic Zone. The Fisheries Monitoring Center maintained continuous 89-day operations, tracking 25 vessels, issuing 349 transshipment authorizations, and ensuring 100% compliance with no detected illegal activities. The Observer Program and Inspectorate Unit recorded 38 inspections and supervised 23 landings totaling 8,297 metric tons of fish, evidencing robust governance enforcement.
Production and Sector Performance
Total marine production during Q3 2025 reached 22,471.9 metric tons, with the artisanal subsector contributing 82.9% and the industrial subsector 17.1%. Artisanal fishing remained the backbone of domestic supply, while industrial fishing showed modest export-oriented growth. Seasonal dynamics affected revenue, which totaled USD 426,558.16 for the quarter but USD 1.4 million cumulatively (43.37% of the annual target), aligning with expected cyclical patterns where Q4 delivers the majority of annual income.
Aquaculture Expansion and Data Systems
Major progress was achieved in aquaculture capacity building and digital integration. Over 500 fish farmers (including 38 women) were trained across Margibi, Bong, Nimba, and Lofa counties. The National Aquaculture Database System (NADS) and National Fishmongers Directory were launched to centralize production and post-harvest data. Two hatcheries in Tassah and Klay advanced toward completion, and national aquaculture production reached 245.5 tons, primarily tilapia.
Institutional Strengthening and Decentralization
NaFAA completed a Decentralization Strategy to correct staff imbalances—currently, 169 of 206 employees are based in Montserrado. The strategy provides the basis of establishing four regional hubs for equitable service delivery and local governance. The framework, scheduled for full implementation by 2029, aims to bridge operational gaps across coastal and inland regions, enhance compliance, and improve data collection.
Financial Overview
Despite seasonal declines, NaFAA’s fiscal management remained strong: USD 1.4 million was executed out of USD 3.26 million approved for 2025. The forecast indicates that Q4 access-agreement renewals will raise year-end performance above 95% of budget targets. Expenditures focused on compensation, goods and services, and expanded digital and infrastructure investments.
Outlook and Strategic Priorities
Quarter four of 2025 will focus on access license renewals, expansion of the Quartermaster System, construction of NaFAA’s new Fisheries Complex, and the celebration of Liberia’s first World Fisheries Day. The Authority anticipates achieving its highest annual revenue levels while advancing environmental sustainability, institutional efficiency, and regional collaboration.
Executive Summary Outlook
The third quarter confirmed NaFAA’s transition into a modern, data-driven regulator. Strengthened governance frameworks, digital transformation, aquaculture expansion, and human resource decentralization collectively established a foundation for long-term growth. Liberia’s fisheries sector
is increasingly positioned as a regional model for sustainable blue economy development, integrating scientific management, inclusive growth, and environmental stewardship.
Please Click the link to download the full 3rd QUARTERLY PERFORMANCE REPORT :https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:EU:92ee3a73-064c-43a5-b5b0-2987c7d66ee4