The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development (MOFAD) has called for renewed commitment to safeguarding Ghana’s aquatic resources, emphasizing sustainability and empowerment within the sector. The call was made during the celebration of 2024 World Fisheries Day in Accra on Thursday, under the theme “Blue Transformation in Action: Sustainability and Empowerment.”
Speaking at the event, Ms. Rosemary Abbey, Director of Finance and Administration at MOFAD, highlighted the critical role fisheries play in Ghana’s development and the need for sustainable management practices. She underscored the importance of World Fisheries Day as a platform to reflect on the sector’s contributions and chart a course for its future sustainability.
“World Fisheries Day offers an opportunity for us to appreciate the vital role fisheries play in food security, job creation, and poverty reduction, while also acknowledging the challenges facing our aquatic ecosystems,” Ms. Abbey stated.
She also pointed to the introduction of the Annual National Fish Festival in 2022 as an example of Ghana’s efforts to promote the sector. The festival serves as a platform to showcase the contributions of fishers, aquaculture operators, and fish-based innovations, encouraging collaboration among stakeholders.
FAO Advocates for Blue Transformation Agenda
Mr. Ndiaga Gueye, Senior Fisheries Officer of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), called on Ghana to adopt the FAO’s Blue Transformation Agenda. This global initiative seeks to advance sustainable aquatic food systems that balance prosperity, equity, and ecological health.
“This is a collective call to action to advance aquatic food systems for the prosperity and well-being of all,” Mr. Gueye said.
He also urged stakeholders, including government agencies, community leaders, fishers, NGOs, and international partners, to play active roles in supporting sustainable practices within the sector.
Focus on Collaboration and Community Involvement
The event was attended by key organisations in the fishing and aquaculture sectors, including:
- Ghana Fishery Recovery Association,
- Women in Resource Management,
- National Fisheries Association of Ghana,
- Ghana National Canoe Fishermen Council,
- Ghana Aquaculture Association, and
- National Fish Processors and Traders Association.
These groups collectively highlighted the urgent need for stronger policies and community engagement to combat challenges such as overfishing, habitat destruction, and illegal fishing practices.
As the fisheries sector provides livelihoods for millions of Ghanaians, the call for sustainable practices is critical not only for economic prosperity but also for the preservation of aquatic ecosystems.
