In a decisive move to combat Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Hon. Emelia Arthur, convened a high-level meeting with Chief Fishermen from key coastal communities in the Greater Accra Region.

The meeting, held at the Ministry’s conference room, brought together traditional fishing leaders from Ngleshie, Bortianor, Oshiye, Kokrobite, Lanma, Faana, and Chorkor. Discussions focused on strengthening community leadership and developing collaborative strategies to end illegal fishing practices threatening Ghana’s marine ecosystem and the livelihoods that depend on it.

Addressing the gathering, Hon. Emelia Arthur underscored the urgent need for community-based leadership in enforcing responsible fishing. She called on the Chief Fishermen to be at the forefront of the campaign to protect Ghana’s fisheries.

“The responsibility lies on all of us, especially you as leaders of your fishing communities, to protect our marine resources. Let’s work together to restore the integrity of our sector,” she stated.

The Minister also highlighted the importance of meeting international standards to help Ghana lift the EU’s yellow card, a warning that could impact fish exports to European markets.

This engagement forms part of the Ministry’s broader stakeholder involvement strategy aimed at restoring discipline, sustainability, and accountability in the fisheries sector.