Maritime Zones (Establishment) Decree, 1996
A 1996 decree establishing and defining Sierra Leone's maritime zones, including its territorial sea and exclusive economic zone.
Summary
The Maritime Zones (Establishment) Decree, 1996 establishes and defines the maritime zones of Sierra Leone in accordance with the international law of the sea. It sets out the extent of the country's territorial sea, contiguous zone, exclusive economic zone and continental shelf, and the rights the State exercises in each.
The Decree provides the legal basis for Sierra Leone's jurisdiction and sovereign rights over its waters and seabed — including rights over living and non-living resources such as fish and minerals — and underpins fisheries, petroleum and maritime enforcement. It reflects the framework of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Main provisions
- Establishes and defines Sierra Leone's maritime zones.
- Defines the territorial sea, contiguous zone, EEZ and continental shelf.
- States the rights and jurisdiction of the State in each zone.
- Provides the basis for rights over marine living and non-living resources.
- Reflects the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.