SLMA to Host Seminar on Mainstreaming Maritime Domain and Blue Economy
Freetown, Sierra Leone – 27 February, 2024- The Sierra Leone Maritime Administration (SLMA) is pleased to announce its upcoming seminar titled “Mainstreaming the Maritime Domain and Blue Economy.” Set to take place on 4 – 5 March, 2024. This seminar aims to galvanize state agencies and non-state actors in the maritime sector towards optimizing Sierra Leone’s maritime potential.
Established by an Act of Parliament in 2000, the SLMA holds the mandate for the regulation and development of the country’s maritime domain, including ship registration, licensing, and safety of maritime personnel. Despite this, Sierra Leone’s National Maritime Policy and Strategy emphasize three key pillars: Maritime Safety and Security, Maritime Governance, and Blue Economy.
The seminar will convene strategic players from both state agencies and related sectors, facilitating discussions on critical issues such as illegal fishing, human trafficking, maritime terrorism, and piracy. Through presentations of academic and professional papers, participants will delve into emerging challenges and opportunities within the maritime sector.
“The seminar presents a vital opportunity for stakeholders to collaborate and develop a strategic roadmap for harnessing Sierra Leone’s maritime potential,” stated Mr. Paul Sobba Massaquoi, Executive Director of SLMA. “We aim to address the underexploited and under-optimized nature of our maritime domain and propel socio-economic development through concerted efforts.” He added.
Among the expected outcomes is the adoption of a comprehensive roadmap document, providing guidance on strategic investments and interventions within the sector. This document will not only inform policy-makers but also align Sierra Leone with donor and developmental partners, facilitating critical investments in the country’s Blue Economy.
Participants from various state agencies, including the Maritime Training Academy (MTA), Office of National Security (ONS), Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR), and Sierra Leone Police (SLP), will contribute to the discourse with their expertise and insights.
For more information and media inquiries, please contact:
Mr. David Mansaray
Public Relations Officer
communications@maritime.gov.sl