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Vice President Prof Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has undertaken a working visit to the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, underscoring the government’s unrelenting dedication to responsible management of the country’s aquatic resources.
The visit, part of her broader engagement with ministries, aimed to gain insight into the operational realities of the sector, offer support, and foster collaboration.
During her visit, the Vice President was apprised of the Ministry’s core agencies, including the Fisheries Commission and the National Premix Fuel Secretariat (NPFS), as well as ongoing efforts to establish a dedicated Blue Economy Commission. These institutional reforms, she noted, are pivotal to a more coordinated and sustainable approach to Ghana’s fisheries and aquatic resources.
Prof Opoku-Agyemang commended the Ministry for its remarkable progress, including the passage of a new Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, increased aquaculture production targets, and strengthened action against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing.
The establishment of Ghana’s first Marine Protected Area was also highlighted as a critical step towards restoring fish stocks and addressing the EU “yellow card”.
Drawing from her experience growing up in a fishing community, the Vice President emphasized the importance of respecting and integrating the indigenous knowledge of fisherfolk, fishmongers, and coastal communities into policy-making.
She stressed that research should be driven by simple yet profound questions, such as how a country with a long coastline can still struggle with fish supply, and how innovation can offer solutions.
“We must find ways to harness the wealth in our waters responsibly, while improving the quality of life of the fishermen and fishmongers who feed us daily,” Prof. Opoku-Agyemang said. “Their profession deserves dignity, investment, and protection, rather than disrespect.”
The Vice President also highlighted the need to add value across the fisheries value chain, tackle environmental threats such as galamsey, plastic pollution, and toxic waste, and change negative perceptions about fishing. The establishment of the Fisheries College at Anomabo was cited as a step towards professionalizing the sector and harnessing resources.
In conclusion, Prof Opoku-Agyemang commended the Ministry for its efforts and encouraged continued teamwork across government and respect for indigenous knowledge.
“We must meet the challenges head-on, build a legacy of sustainability, and ensure that those who work on our waters can thrive,” she said.
Story by Lawrence Odoom/Phalonzy
