MONROVIA – The Government of Liberia(GoL), through the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) and in collaboration with Conservation International (CI), has officially launched the Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) Framework, signaling a transformative shift in the management of the nation’s territorial waters.
By Francis G. Boayue
The newly unveiled “Liberia Marine Spatial Plan Guidance Document” under the Blue Oceans Program is designed to provide a clear, actionable roadmap for the sustainable use of Liberia’s marine resources.
The initiative aligns directly with the national Blue Economy Strategy, aiming to balance economic growth with environmental preservation.
Speaking at the launch ceremony on Wednesday, John F. Harvey, LiMA Deputy Commissioner for Domestic Registry & Safety, emphasized that Liberia is at a “pivotal moment” to reform its marine governance.
“With a strong policy foundation, international commitments, and regional frameworks, Liberia is well-positioned to implement MSP as a cornerstone of its sustainable development agenda,” Mr. Harvey stated.
He noted that the National Blue Economy Strategy and the Blue Oceans Program (BOP) provide a vision for integrated ocean management, with a specific focus on ecosystem-based planning, climate resilience, and inclusive governance.
The launch is being hailed as a victory for environmental conservation and the thousands of Liberians who rely on the sea for their survival.
Momodu Kemokai, Country Director of Conservation International Liberia, described the framework as a major step forward. “The ocean is one of Liberia’s greatest assets; it sustains our fishery and protects our communities from climate degradation,” Kemokai said. “The launch of this framework is essential for the protection of our ocean and the hundreds of Liberians whose lives and livelihoods depend on healthy marine and coastal ecosystems.”
The CI Boss further extended gratitude to the European Union and local partners for their technical and financial support in developing Liberia’s first-ever MSP guidance document.
The Marine Spatial Planning Framework is expected to reduce conflicts over ocean space—such as between industrial shipping and artisanal fishing—while identifying protected areas to ensure long-term biodiversity.
By establishing clear zoning for the ocean, the government hopes to attract sustainable investment while safeguarding the coastline against the increasing threats of climate change and over-exploitation.
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