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By Josiah Pailay/+231881913880/ Email: [email protected]
Gbarnga, Bong County — The Youth International Training Institute (YITI), with technical support from WorldFish, has successfully concluded a one-day intensive fish farming training program benefiting more than 50 participants in Central Liberia, further contributing to efforts to strengthen Liberia’s growing aquaculture sector.
The training was conducted at Goll Farm Community, the demonstration site of YITI in Jorquelleh District #3, Bong County, and brought together fish farmers, aquaculture enthusiasts, youth groups, and individuals interested in improving fish production and expanding opportunities within the fisheries value chain.
The practical training was led by Mr. Jacob B. Dennis, who served as lead trainer and facilitated sessions focused on modern fish farming methods, pond construction and management, fish feeding techniques, water quality management, stocking practices, fish health, production improvement, and sustainable aquaculture systems.
Participants were exposed to practical demonstrations and technical knowledge intended to increase fish productivity, strengthen food security, and create opportunities for household income generation through fish farming.
Speaking to journalists following the training, Mr. Dennis emphasized that the initiative forms part of YITI’s broader commitment to community empowerment through agricultural education, innovation, and practical demonstration.
According to him, fish farming remains one of the emerging agricultural opportunities capable of supporting economic growth and improving livelihoods in Liberia.
“Liberia possesses enormous water resources and suitable environmental conditions that create opportunities for fish farming development. Through training and practical demonstrations, communities can increase local fish production and reduce dependency on imported fish,” he noted.
Mr. Dennis extended appreciation to WorldFish for its technical support throughout the process and acknowledged the institution’s continued contribution toward improving aquaculture knowledge and capacity development.
He further recognized the contribution of Mr. Hope Yattoh, National Coordinator, whose support and coordination contributed significantly to the successful implementation of the training program.
Fish farming, commonly known as aquaculture, continues to gain importance in Liberia as demand for fish increases nationwide. Fish remains one of the country’s most important food sources, with an estimated 80 percent of Liberians depending on fish as their primary source of protein, while fish contributes approximately 65 percent of total animal protein intake nationally.
Although Liberia possesses substantial fisheries resources and a coastline stretching approximately 579 kilometers, domestic fish production still falls short of demand, creating opportunities for increased investment in aquaculture and local production systems.
Liberia’s fisheries sector has an estimated production potential of about 40,000 metric tons annually, while demand for fish continues to rise.
Recent data show that Liberia’s total fisheries production reached approximately 29,534 metric tons in 2023, demonstrating the continued importance of the sector for national food systems and livelihoods.
Aquaculture production alone was reported at approximately 1,362 metric tons in 2023, reflecting gradual growth in fish farming activities across the country.
Historically, aquaculture activities in Liberia have been concentrated in counties including Bong, Nimba, and Montserrado. The sector has traditionally relied on earthen ponds supplied by natural water sources, with species such as Nile tilapia and catfish among the most commonly cultivated fish, More recent agricultural data indicate that catfish farming remains dominant, while tilapia production continues to expand.
Experts indicate that increasing investment in fish feed, improved fingerling supply, training, and better pond management can significantly raise local fish production and reduce pressure on capture fisheries.
Recent interventions supported by training institutions and technical partners are also encouraging the adoption of improved fish breeding and management practices across Liberia.
For their part, beneficiaries expressed appreciation to YITI leadership and WorldFish for organizing what they described as an impactful and eye-opening intervention that they believe will improve production at their respective fish farms.
Speaking in interviews conducted at the training site on June 6, 2026, participants Mr. George Flomo and Nancy Kerkulah said the practical sessions strengthened their understanding of fish production techniques and equipped them with knowledge they intend to apply in their communities.
The YITI leadership further expressed gratitude to supporters, stakeholders, and development partners whose continued encouragement continues to advance agricultural development and youth empowerment across Liberia.
The successful completion of the training marks another important milestone in building local capacity, promoting sustainable fish farming, and supporting Liberia’s long-term goal of achieving greater food security and agricultural transformation.
