The National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA) has begun the distribution of 400 pieces of Automatic Identification System (AIS) Transponders to local fishermen on Popo Beach to enhance safety and efficiency.
With funding from the World Bank through the Liberia Sustainable Management of Fisheries Project (LSMFP), the transponders are distributed to licensed fisher folks in Montserrado, Grand Bassa, and Grand Cape Mount Counties.
The Tuesday, February 25, 2025, deployment also aims to significantly enhance real-time monitoring capabilities and facilitate swift emergency responses, ensuring the safety of fishermen at sea.
According to a NaFAA press release, the transponders will enable precise tracking of artisanal fishing vessels, help to prevent losses and optimize fishing routes for increased efficiency.
The introduction of AIS Transponders further marks a pivotal advancement in navigational tracking and communication among small-scale fishermen, which play an essential role in sustainable fish stock management and combatting overfishing by providing crucial data on fishing patterns and locations.
The AIS transponder is a state-of-the-art, portable device featuring diverse power options, including rechargeable batteries, wired connections, and solar energy compatibility. Its design ensures adaptability to various environmental conditions.
The transponder functions in two modes—normal and emergency alert—activated by distinct buttons, maximizing its utility in both standard operations and critical emergencies, as this versatility guarantees dependable performance under a range of scenarios.
At the same time, the joint press release noted that the Liberia Sustainable Management of Fisheries Project (LSMFP) will provide comprehensive technical support and training to users of small-scale and semi-industrial vessels, ensuring this innovative technology’s successful adoption and utilization.
Meanwhile, NaFAA, through the Liberia Sustainable Management of Fisheries Project, reiterates its commitment to enhancing fisheries governance, improving livelihoods, and boosting revenue generation for the Government and people of Liberia.
