Fisheries ministry donates fish to hospitals, vulnerable homes

The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources donated 100 cartons of fish to major government hospitals and vulnerable homes across Freetown's Western and Eastern areas, supporting President Julius Maada Bio's Human Capital Development Agenda through improved nutrition.

Minister Princess Dugba, Deputy Minister Ahmed S. Kanu, Acting Director Sheku Sei, Permanent Secretary Brima S. Kebbie and senior officials led a two-day humanitarian initiative commencing July 28 and concluding Aug 4, targeting enhanced nutritional wellbeing for patients and vulnerable persons through quality fish protein.

Donation distribution included 10 cartons at Kissy Mental Teaching Hospital, 20 cartons at Princess Christian Maternity Hospital and Ola During Children's Hospital, 15 cartons at Connaught Hospital, 10 cartons at Rokupa Hospital, 10 cartons at Approved School Polio Home, 10 cartons at Don Bosco Children's Home, 10 cartons at 34 Military Hospital, and 10 cartons at King Hermann Road Hospital.

Minister Dugba described the initiative as reflecting President Bio's commitment to improving vulnerable citizens' welfare through enhanced nutrition and social support, noting intervention benefits patients and institutions where quality protein access remains limited.

Medical superintendents, hospital administrators, and nutritionists expressed profound appreciation, underscoring adequate nutrition's vital role in patient recovery. They noted many patients have limited family support, depending heavily on hospital management's daily meals, describing the donation as timely and impactful.

The minister explained the rainy season often disrupts fish supply, making affordable seafood difficult for households and institutions. Government remains committed to ensuring vulnerable groups, including long-term care patients, benefit from nutritious diets essential for recovery and wellbeing.

She commended Ocean Fresh Fishing Company's partnership enabling donation, describing the contribution as a commendable example of corporate citizenship. "The Ministry encourages more fishing companies to support vulnerable communities through Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives. Together, we improve nutrition, strengthen public health, contribute meaningfully to national development," she said.

Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to implementing programmed promoting food security, improved nutrition, sustainable fisheries management, and inclusive social development, ensuring marine resources continue benefiting all Sierra Leoneans, especially the most vulnerable members of society.