The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture, in partnership with the Fisheries Commission and the Global Fisheries Resilience Action (GFRA), convened an inspiring community dialogue in Shama to spotlight women’s critical role in Ghana’s fisheries sector and chart new pathways for their empowerment.
Delivering the keynote address, Hon. Emelia Arthur, Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture and Member of Parliament for Shama, emphasized that women are not peripheral actors but central drivers of the fisheries value chain. From fish processing and preservation to trading, marketing, and financing fishing operations, women sustain the sector’s heartbeat. Yet, she noted, their contributions have long been undervalued, and they continue to face challenges such as inadequate infrastructure and declining fish stocks.
Hon. Arthur disclosed that feasibility studies are underway for the construction of the Shama Fishing Harbour, a project championed by President John Dramani Mahama to boost local livelihoods. She also announced plans to establish a modern fish market in Shama, which will create employment opportunities for women engaged in fish roasting, frying, and trading. Addressing health concerns, she assured participants that measures are being introduced to improve fish processing methods to safeguard both health and livelihoods.
On child labour, the Minister urged NGOs to consider Ghana’s cultural and economic realities. Sharing her personal story of assisting her grandmother while pursuing education, she stressed: “It only becomes a problem when children are denied access to education because of their parents’ selfish interests. Allow your children to learn and work with you, but do not deprive them of education.”
She further underscored the importance of compliance with the close season and non-fishing days, warning that violations would attract sanctions. Expressing gratitude to the Fisheries Commission, GFRA, development partners, and the women of Shama, she called for collective action to build a fisheries sector that truly works for everyone.
The District Chief Executive for Shama, Paul Otis Dentu, encouraged training and inclusion of women to eliminate poor-quality fish from the market. Western Regional Director of the Fisheries Commission, Charles Teye, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to delivering greater results in Shama and beyond.
The dialogue featured a presentation by Fusena Issah and Rukaya Issah of the Fisheries Commission, who educated fishmongers on proper fish handling and processing practices. Baviina Safia Musah urged women to seize emerging opportunities, highlighting reforms and financial initiatives such as USLA that support women’s empowerment. She noted that financial institutions often trust women due to their strong repayment records.
Madam Rita Azarimah of the Ghana Health Service educated participants on preventing diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, cancer, and kidney disease. Messages of support were delivered by institutions including the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, NAFPTA, CAOPA, GNCFC, CAFGOAG, and other stakeholders.
The dialogue reinforced a powerful message: empowering women through inclusion, education, infrastructure, and sustainable practices is essential for the resilience of Ghana’s fisheries sector and the prosperity of coastal communities.
