Sierra Leone has launched a transformative infrastructure initiative with the development of the Black Johnson Fish Harbour, a nationally owned project that aims to strengthen the fisheries sector and spur long-term economic growth.

The project is being financed with a $55 million grant from the Chinese government.

Speaking at the weekly government press briefing on Tuesday, Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources Princess Dauba, confirmed that the grant from China is not a loan and has no financial burden to Sierra Leone.

“This is a 100% grant — not debt — and the project remains fully owned by the people of Sierra Leone,” the minister said. “It is a strategic investment in food security, jobs, and marine governance.”

Once completed, the Black Johnson Fish Harbour will serve as a vital anchor for Sierra Leone’s fisheries and blue economy. The facility will include: a modern fish market, a quality control laboratory, and space designated for a future fish canning factory.

The infrastructure components are projected to increase national revenue by more than $59 million annually through higher fish exports, reduced illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, and greater industrial fishing efficiency.

The project has undergone a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), with three public disclosure sessions held in the Western Area Rural District. In total, the harbour will occupy 250 acres, 80 already owned by the government and 170 acquired through legal processes.

The minister said that out of more than 200 land claims, only 21 were validated after review by the Office of the Attorney General and the Ministry of Lands. Seventeen verified claimants have been compensated, with payments to four pending due to incomplete documentation. Funds for those four have been secured in escrow.

Since 2019, the government has held community consultations and town hall meetings in Black Johnson, engaging with local residents and stakeholders. Individuals with informal land use based on over two decades of residence were also included in the compensation process.

All verified landowners have been invited to submit proposals for investment partnerships in future development linked to the harbour.

The Ministry of Fisheries describes the Black Johnson Fish Harbour as a key pillar in the country’s development strategy. It is expected to: create employment across the fisheries value chain, boost food security under the Feed Salone agenda, strengthen marine governance and sustainability, and reduce import dependency and expand exports.

“This is a project rooted in facts, transparency and opportunity — not propaganda,” the ministry said in a statement. “It is about supporting national development and defending the truth.”

As work progresses, the Black Johnson Fish Harbour is positioned to become a cornerstone of Sierra Leone’s economic future — delivering lasting returns to both coastal communities and the nation as a whole.