The Government of Liberia, through the REALISE Project, has launched a ProBlue registration exercise aimed at providing financial support to fishmongers in West Point Township.
The exercise, which began on June 11, is targeting 50 fishmongers registered with the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA) as part of efforts to support small-scale traders facing economic challenges.
Officials said more than 300 fishmongers registered for a lottery process that will determine the final 50 beneficiaries selected for the first phase of the program.
Each selected beneficiary will receive a US$900 grant intended to strengthen their businesses and improve their livelihoods over a six-month period.
Speaking at the launch, REALISE Project Head of Communications Henry Flomo said the initiative is fully supported by the Government of Liberia and is designed to provide direct assistance to vulnerable fish traders.
“This grant is non-refundable and will run for six months under the supervision of the project and the Government of Liberia,” Flomo said.
He explained that the selection process will be conducted transparently through a lottery system to ensure fairness among all registered applicants.
“We want to make sure that the process is open and fair so that every eligible fishmonger has an equal chance of benefiting,” he added.
Beneficiaries at the event welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely support for their businesses.
Evelyn Momo, one of the fishmongers registered for the program, said the assistance would make a meaningful difference in her trading activities.
“This support will help us expand our business and take better care of our families,” Momo said.
The REALISE Project is expected to continue working with NaFAA and other partners to expand support programs for fishmongers and strengthen livelihoods in coastal communities.
