Conduct situation analysis functions of the competent authority in Sierra Leone.

The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR) in Sierra Leone is responsible for managing, developing and conserving Sierra Leone’s fisheries resources, including marine, inland and aquaculture fisheries. Following a Cabinet decision in March 2020, the Competent Authority was formally established under the MFMR, having previously been the responsibility of the Ministry of Health and Sanitation. MRAG conducted a situation analysis for enhancing the functions of the Competent Authority for fishery products quality controls. The study was accomplished through a combination of desk research and in-country stakeholder consultations. Specifically, the study provided an assessment of and recommendations on the i) functions and capacity within the Competent Authority, ii) fish products quality control including laboratories; and iii) sanitary infrastructure at landing sites. Overall, fourteen recommendations were provided for several areas that require improvement before the Sierra Leone could gain access to the EU market.