The Government of Ghana, through the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture, is taking decisive steps to strengthen fisheries governance, support alternative livelihoods, and protect marine resources, as highlighted in recent Parliamentary engagements.
Artisanal Fishers Exempted from 2025 Closed Season
In a Parliamentary response to Hon. Duke Ofori-Atta (Fanteakwa South), Hon. Emelia Arthur, Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, explained the rationale behind the exemption of artisanal marine fishers from the 2025 closed fishing season. Artisanal fishers, who contribute significantly to national food security and rural livelihoods, are being exempted to ensure a balance between conservation and socio-economic realities of coastal communities.
However, the Minister emphasized that the exemption does not negate their obligations under other management regimes. Artisanal fishers must continue observing traditional fishing holidays and comply with anti-IUU (Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated) fishing regulations. She further highlighted Ghana’s commitment to sustainable fisheries through alternative measures such as the proposed Marine Protected Area (MPA) at Greater Cape Three Points, designed to safeguard marine biodiversity and enhance co-management.
Reforms to Avert EU Yellow Card
In response to another Parliamentary question from Hon. Seth Akoto (Atwima Mponua), Hon. Arthur outlined progress made in addressing the European Union’s concerns that led to Ghana being issued a yellow card in 2021. These reforms include strengthening traceability systems, enforcement actions, and regulatory updates.
A major milestone is the submission of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Bill, 2025, to Parliament under a Certificate of Urgency. This Bill, along with its implementing regulations, is expected to enhance legal clarity, improve governance, and help reverse the EU’s yellow card warning. The Minister urged Members of Parliament to support the passage of the Bill to secure the sustainability and international credibility of Ghana’s fisheries sector.
Aquaculture for Youth Empowerment
In the same sitting, Hon. Arthur also announced new aquaculture opportunities under the Ministry’s Aquaculture Initiative aimed at providing alternative livelihoods. Responding to concerns about displaced food crop farmers in Fanteakwa South, she noted that affected groups are encouraged to apply for support.
As part of the Ministry’s efforts to expand inland fish farming and empower youth, 64 young people and women from Fanteakwa South have already benefited from the Aquaculture for Food and Jobs (AFJ) programme. They received fish feed and tarpaulin tanks to establish and expand their aquaculture ventures.
These interventions align with the government’s broader vision of building a resilient Blue Economy anchored on sustainability, community stewardship, and youth empowerment.
