The Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Emelia Arthur, has assured artisanal fishermen that they would be exempted from the annual close fishing season instituted by the Ministry.
This, however, is contingent upon their strict adherence to best fishing practices, including observing traditional non-fishing days and avoiding harmful fishing methods.
The exemption of artisanal fishermen from the closed fishing season is a significant policy decision, according to the Fisheries Minister.
Acknowledging the importance of small-scale fishing to the livelihoods of coastal communities, Minister Emelia Arthur stated that by promoting responsible fishing practices and supporting the needs of artisanal fishermen, the John Mahama administration aimed to ensure the long-term sustainability of Ghana’s fisheries resources.
During her visit to the Ngyeresia fishing community, Emelia Arthur, who is also the Member of Parliament (MP) for Shama emphasised the importance of responsible fishing practices to ensure the sustainability of Ghana’s fisheries resources.
She urged the fishermen to cooperate with the Fisheries Commission’s taskforce, made up of personnel drawn from the Ghana Navy and the Marine Police Section of the Ghana Police Service (GPS) to begin patrolling the seas with intent to enforcing compliance of fishing regulations.
On premix fuel, Emelia Arthur said it was an essential component of fishing and would be regularly supplied once the landing beach committees had been formed.
The committee’s membership would include representatives from various stakeholders, including fishermen, canoe owners, and the fisheries Ministry.
The Minister also announced the abolition of the Regional, District and zonal premix coordinators.
Going forward, sector Minister Emelia Arthur announced plans to provide high-quality fishing gears to artisanal fishermen once the economy stabilises to be paid on high purchase basis.
In a related development, Nana Kobina Nketsia V, Paramount chief of Essikado Traditional area, has urged the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Madam Emelia Arthur, to foster peace and unity within the fishing industry.
He expressed concern about the apparent disunity and emphasised the importance of unity for the industry’s development.
Nana Nketsia made these comments during a courtesy call on him by Madam Emelia Arthur and some officials of the ministry at his Essikado residence.
He encouraged Madam Emelia Arthur to excel in her role, saying “As a daughter of Essikado, you don’t dare to fail.”
He reminded her to prioritise serving Ghana and sought divine guidance for her tenure.
Present at the meeting were Professor Dr. Grace Ayensu Danquah, Member of Parliament for Essikado Ketan Constituency and some NDC constituency executives.
