On March 4–5, 2024, the Sierra Leone Maritime Administration (SLMA) will hold a seminar with the theme “Mainstreaming the Maritime Domain and Blue Economy.”
The seminar aims to bring together key stakeholders in the maritime sector to explore strategies for optimising Sierra Leone’s maritime capabilities.
The development and regulation of the country’s maritime industry depend heavily on the SLMA, which was established by a Parliamentary Act in 2000. It deals with licencing, ship registration, and the safety of maritime workers. Maritime Safety and Security, Maritime Governance, and Blue Economy are the three main pillars that Sierra Leone’s National Maritime Policy and Strategy emphasises, as being crucial.
Participants in the seminar will have the opportunity to discuss hot-button issues like piracy, human trafficking, illegal fishing, and maritime terrorism. Stakeholders will have the chance to learn more about the opportunities and challenges that are emerging in the maritime industry, through the presentation of professional and academic papers.
Mr. Paul Sobba Massaquoi, Executive Director of the SLMA, emphasised the importance of the seminar in encouraging stakeholder collaboration to develop a strategic roadmap for optimising Sierra Leone’s maritime potential. He pointed out that coordinated efforts are required to promote socioeconomic development because the nation’s maritime domain is presently underutilised and underoptimized.
Adoption of a thorough roadmap document that will direct strategic investments and interventions within the sector, is one of the seminar’s anticipated outcomes. In addition to educating decision-makers, this paper will help Sierra Leone maintain good relations with its development and donor partners, opening the door for vital investments in the nation’s blue economy.
Experts and perspectives from a range of state agencies, such as the Office of National Security (ONS), Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR), Sierra Leone Police (SLP), and Maritime Training Academy (MTA), will be brought to the table.
All things considered, the seminar looks to be a great way for interested parties to work together, exchange ideas, and set direction for the development of Sierra Leone’s maritime industry and blue economy. Participants can work towards realising the full potential of Sierra Leone’s maritime sector for the benefit of the nation and its citizens, by banding together to address issues and seize opportunities.
