Sierra Leone to Grant Russia Rights to Fish in Its Atlantic Ocean Waters

Sierra Leone’s government is prepared to grant Russian fishing operators an annual catch quota of 40,000 tons, along with investment incentives aimed at boosting bilateral cooperation in the aquaculture sector, according to the Russian Federal Agency for Fisheries (Rosrybolovstvo).

The agency said the move was discussed during the inaugural session of the Russian-Sierra Leone Fisheries Commission held in Freetown, the capital of the West African country.

Rosrybolovstvo said that “Sierra Leone is interested in attracting up to 20 Russian vessels to work in its exclusive economic zone.” Scientists from the two countries previously conducted marine biology research to assess the biomass and distribution of small pelagic fish species as part of the Great African Expedition launched by Rosrybolovstvo last August.

The two sides are expected to launch detailed negotiations on operations in Sierra Leonean waters once research data is processed and interest by fishing companies in specific fish stocks and other marine resources is evaluated.

Rosrybolovstvo also noted that Sierra Leone is interested in cooperation with Russia in the development of its port infrastructure and modernization of its fishing fleet, in attracting Russian investments for the creation of onshore refrigeration facilities, improvement of the control and supervision systems, port infrastructure, modernization of its artisanal fleet based on composite materials, production of fishing gear and the development of aquaculture.

Russia’s engagement in Africa has intensified in recent years, with several nations seeking joint projects with Moscow in defense, energy, education, and trade. The Kremlin has declared strengthening ties with the continent a top foreign-policy priority.

In January, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova confirmed plans for new embassies to be established in several African nations, including Sierra Leone. For now, the Consulate General in Freetown remains Russia’s primary diplomatic representation in the country.

Thus far, Sierra Leone’s bilateral trade with Russia has been limited, amounting to US$3 million in 2024. However, in June last year, Russian companies, including aluminum giant Rusal and diamond producer Alrosa, entered negotiations with Sierra Leone for bauxite mining and diamond operations.

In May, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said at a press conference following talks with Sierra Leone Foreign Minister Timothy Kabba that Russia and Sierra Leone were negotiating the signing of a package of cooperation documents that would soon be finalized. These developments suggest the potential for enhanced economic ties between the two nations in the future, while there are also opportunities in mining, agriculture, fishing, processing, and subsoil exploitation.