Accra, July 22, 2025 – The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture, in collaboration with the Fisheries Commission, organized a stakeholder consultative meeting to assess progress and strengthen compliance with the moratorium on new canoe construction.

The meeting, brought together representatives from the Forestry Commission, academia, fisher associations, and the Canoe Carvers Association to deliberate on strategies for improving stakeholder adherence to the moratorium, which has been in force for the past two years.

Under the current directive, the construction of new canoes is prohibited, although the replacement of existing ones is permitted. The moratorium forms part of broader efforts to restore Ghana’s marine fish stocks and promote sustainable fisheries.

In his remarks, Professor Benjamin Betey Campion, Executive Director of the Fisheries Commission, underscored the importance of stakeholder collaboration in achieving the objectives of the moratorium. He reiterated that strict adherence to the policy is critical to protecting Ghana’s marine resources.

“The only way we can achieve the objectives of the moratorium is through your full cooperation. Compliance from all stakeholders is essential to protecting our marine resources and sustaining the fisheries sector,” Professor Campion said.

The stakeholders reviewed the moratorium’s implementation and the way forward. Participants agreed on key action points aimed at enhancing monitoring and enforcement.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive governance and stakeholder engagement in the sustainable management of Ghana’s fisheries resources. The event concluded with a call for continued partnership among all stakeholders.