By By: Alphanso G. Kalama;
Monrovia, Liberia – The suspended Director-General of the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA) has spoken out following her removal over alleged misappropriation of funds. In a heartfelt statement, she expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve Liberia, highlighting the institution’s achievements during her tenure and vowing to clear her name.
Addressing NaFAA and the Liberian public, the embattled official recounted a series of accomplishments under her leadership, including securing over $100 million in international funding for fisheries development projects. She noted major financial contributions from organizations such as the World Bank ($40M), OPEC ($20M), Iceland ($3.1M), FAO ($3.5M), and the European Union ($25M), among others. She also mentioned a $60 million loan aimed at constructing the Mesurado Fishing Pier and other key infrastructure.
Beyond financial gains, she pointed to policy and legal reforms, including Liberia’s ratification of international fisheries agreements, updates to national fisheries regulations, and membership in global and regional fisheries organizations. Additionally, she emphasized her administration’s efforts to improve the livelihoods of local fishermen, citing programs such as net exchanges, outboard engine provisions, life jacket distributions, and microloans for women in fisheries.
Despite these achievements, her tenure ended abruptly, with the government suspending her over allegations of financial mismanagement. She lamented the political nature of her removal, stating, “We put in our best… but politics has interrupted our wonderful plans, leaving mixed feelings.”
She also addressed the European Commission’s Yellow Card on Liberia’s fisheries sector, clarifying that it was inherited from the previous administration and that most benchmarks had been met, except for the prosecution of distant water fleets under the maritime program.
While acknowledging her imperfections as a leader, she urged NaFAA staff to support the new leadership and sustain the progress made under her administration. She further expressed gratitude to former President George Weah for appointing her and pledged to pursue legal means to restore her reputation.
“I love you all—both those who love me and those who despise me. Please support your new boss in the interest of Liberia while I seek redress to clear my character.”
Her suspension and the allegations against her remain a subject of national discussion, as the government moves forward with its investigation into the matter.
