Sierra Leone hosts Russian fishing fleet under new agreement

(MENAFN) Sierra Leone has agreed to grant Russian fishing companies an annual catch quota of 40,000 tons and is offering investment incentives to strengthen cooperation in the fishing sector, according to Russia’s Federal Agency for Fisheries (Rosrybolovstvo).

The agreement was discussed during the first meeting of the Russian-Sierra Leone Fisheries Commission in Freetown, Sierra Leone’s capital. Rosrybolovstvo announced that Sierra Leone aims to attract up to 20 Russian fishing vessels to operate within its exclusive economic zone.

The two countries previously conducted joint marine biology research to evaluate fish populations, particularly small pelagic species, as part of the Great African Expedition initiated by Rosrybolovstvo last August. Further negotiations on fishing operations will take place after analyzing research data and assessing fishing companies’ interest in specific marine resources.

Beyond fishing, Sierra Leone is also seeking collaboration with Russia on port development, fleet modernization, and investments in coastal refrigeration and monitoring systems.

Russia’s involvement in Africa has grown in recent years, with many African nations pursuing partnerships with Moscow in defense, energy, education, and trade. Strengthening ties with Africa remains a key priority for the Kremlin.

In January, Russia announced plans to open new embassies across Africa, including in Sierra Leone, where the Russian Consulate General in Freetown currently serves as the main diplomatic mission.

Recently, Russia signed multiple agreements with African countries, including peaceful nuclear energy cooperation deals with Burkina Faso and Mali. Sierra Leone’s ambassador to Russia, Mohamed Yongawo, also expressed interest in working with Russian IT firms like Yandex, particularly in education and healthcare, during the XVI International IT Forum in Khanty-Mansiysk.

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