Frequently Asked Questions

Kpongama

What is the “Unlocking Blue Horizons” conference?
The conference is a premier global platform aimed at advancing the sustainable growth and modernization of Liberia’s fisheries and aquaculture sector. It convenes government leaders, regional bodies, investors, researchers, development partners, and private-sector stakeholders to share innovations, strengthen governance systems, mobilize financing, and highlight emerging opportunities within the Blue Economy.
Why is Liberia hosting this conference now?
Recent assessments from the World Bank, FAO, and the African Development Bank identify Liberia’s fisheries as a “sleeping giant” capable of boosting GDP, reducing poverty, creating jobs, and improving food security.

However, gaps in governance, post-harvest practices, aquaculture development, and climate resilience continue to limit growth.

The conference provides a catalytic platform to align stakeholders, mobilize partnerships, and launch Liberia’s new fisheries strategies and investment frameworks for 2025–2030.
Who is organizing the conference?
The event is hosted by the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA) in partnership with the Government of Liberia and key development partners and the World Bank.
Who is the conference for?
The target audience includes:

  • Government ministries and agencies in Liberia and the region.

  • International organizations (FAO, UNDP, UNIDO, WorldFish).

  • Donors and development finance institutions (World Bank, AfDB, IFAD, EU, Norad, climate funds).

  • Investors and private-sector firms in fisheries, aquaculture, logistics, and agribusiness.

  • Artisanal fishers, women’s cooperatives, youth groups, and civil-society organizations.

  • Academia and research institutions.

  • Media and development communicators.

What are the main objectives of the conference?
The conference aims to:

  • Share knowledge and best practices in governance, resource management, and value-chain modernization

  • Showcase Liberia’s new Fisheries Strategic Plan, Investment Plan, and Aquaculture Strategy.

  • Present investment-ready opportunities across fisheries and the wider Blue Economy.

  • Strengthen public-private partnerships.

  • Build regional cooperation on IUU enforcement, stock management, climate resilience, and trade.

What topics will be discussed?
The conference is structured around seven major themes:

  • Governance and institutional strengthening.

  • Sustainable fisheries resource management.

  • Value-chain development and exports.

  • Aquaculture expansion.

  • Climate resilience and environmental sustainability.

  • Research and capacity building.

  • Financing and investment models for the Blue Economy.

  • Each theme is explored through plenaries, technical panels, and practical demonstrations.
What is the Blue Investment Marketplace?
The Marketplace is a curated exhibition showcasing Liberia’s most promising fisheries and Blue Economy assets. Exhibitors will include:

  • Artisanal and commercial species exhibits.

  • Fish processing and cold chain infrastructure models.

  • Aquaculture systems, hatcheries, and feed production.

  • Semi-industrial vessels and fiberglass boat production.

  • Fisheries standard laboratory equipment.

  • Data, surveillance, and governance innovations.

  • University and training programs.


It allows investors, donors, and private firms to directly interact with technologies, project concepts, and sector innovators.
What strategic documents will be launched?
Liberia will officially launch:

  • The Liberia Fisheries Strategic Plan

  • The Liberia Fisheries Investment Plan (PPP Strategy)

  • The National Aquaculture Strategy

  • These instruments will guide sector modernization between 2025 and 2030.
Will the conference produce a formal outcome?
Yes. Key outputs include:
  • A Joint Conference Declaration on sustainable fisheries and Blue Economy development

  • A strengthened regional fisheries network.

  • An expanded pipeline of donor and private-sector investments.

  • A Final Conference Report summarizing proceedings, recommendations, and next steps
  • How can investors participate?
    Investors can join panel sessions, schedule B2B meetings, tour exhibition booths, and engage directly with NaFAA and government representatives. Dedicated sessions will highlight investment-ready projects across aquaculture, processing, cold chain logistics, research, and fisheries governance technologies.
    How can I register for the conference?
    Registration will be available online for delegates, exhibitors, and media partners. Early registration is encouraged due to limited space.
    You can register at ...
    Is there a fee to attend?
    There will be no participation fee for the conference. Attendance is free for all registered delegates, including government officials, community representatives, development partners, and invited guests.
    Will virtual participation be available?
    There will be no virtual participation
    Are visas required for international delegates?
    Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter Liberia. Delegates will receive an official invitation letter upon registration to facilitate the visa process. Liberia also offers visas on arrival under certain conditions. (Participants are encouraged to check with the nearest Liberian embassy or consulate.) You can also visit https://visaonarrival.lis.gov.lr for details on visa on arrival.
    What accommodation and transportation options are available?
    The Farmington Hotel, the main accommodation for the conference, can accommodate most delegates. In addition, several nearby hotels offer high-quality lodging for participants who prefer or require alternative accommodations. A full list of recommended hotels, including those offering discounted conference rates, will be shared with all registered delegates.

    To ensure smooth movement during the conference, shuttle buses will be available to transport delegates commuting from Monrovia to the Farmington Hotel and back throughout the event.
    How can the media participate?
    Accredited journalists will have access to press briefings, interviews with panelists, and multimedia resources. Media accreditation will be managed through the registration portal.
    How does the conference link to regional and global fisheries commitments?
    The event aligns with:

    • ECOWAS fisheries management frameworks.

    • FCWC regional cooperation models.

    • FAO’s Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries.

    • SDG 14: Life Below Water

    • Global efforts to combat IUU fishing and promote sustainable aquaculture

    • Climate adaptation commitments under the UNFCCC
    What opportunities exist for women and youth?
    Women and youth play leading roles in Liberia’s fisheries value chain, particularly in processing and trade. Sessions will spotlight:

    • Inclusive business models

    • Access to finance and markets

    • Training and research pathways

    • Youth participation in innovation, technology, and aquaculture

    Are there sponsorship opportunities for this conference?
    There will be no sponsorship opportunities for this conference. All costs associated with the event are fully covered by the organizers, and no external sponsorship packages, exhibition fees, or paid visibility options will be offered. Additional information for delegates will be shared through official conference communication channels.
    Where can I find updates and conference materials?
    All updates, program changes, exhibitor information, and downloadable materials will be available on the official conference website and NaFAA’s communication channels.