By Juliet Aguiar DUGBARTEY, Upper Dixcove
The Minister for Fisheries and Acquaculture, Mrs. Mavis Hawa Koomson has warned fishermen planning to land their fish catch at the Togo border during the Closed Season to desist from such act.
“Be warned that, the ministry, together with the Marine Enforcement Unit, will apprehend and charge fishermen, who will go on with their intention. More so, there shall be no more use of monofilament nets and any unauthorized fishing gears after the opening of the season” she reiterated.
Also, she said “let us remember that the health of our oceans is directly linked to the health of our communities. By protecting our marine resources today, we are securing a prosperous future for our offspring. Let us all play our part in ensuring the success of this year’s Closed Fishing Season” she added.
The minister, gave the warning at a symbolic closure of 2024 Closed Fishing Season at Upper Dixcove in the Ahanta West Municipality of the Western Region.
She explained that the annual event, is crucial not only for the sustainability of marine resources but also for the long-term livelihood of the fishing communities.
“This season, has been a period of reflection, rejuvenation and renewal for our marine ecosystems, and today, we celebrate the positive strides we have made towards sustainable fishing practices. I understand the immense importance of our fishing industry. It is the backbone of many of our coastal communities, providing food, employment, and cultural identity” she said.
However, Mrs. Koomson noted that catches from both the marine and inland sources are fast declining, threatening the very existence of the populace. This is due to overfishing and unsustainable practices which have put the marine ecosystems at risk which again threatens the very foundation of this vital sector.
“The Closed Fishing Season is an essential measure, designed to give our fish stocks the opportunity to replenish. During this period, we are giving our marine resources the chance to recover, ensuring that future generations can continue to benefit from the ocean’s abundance. This initiative, is in line with our commitment to sustainable fisheries management and the preservation of biodiversity in our waters” she said.
In addition to the Closed Fishing Season, she said the ministry is implementing several other measures to ensure the sustainability of the fisheries sector. These include, the enforcement of fishing regulations, promotion of responsible fishing practices and investment in scientific research to better understand the marine ecosystems.
“We are also enhancing our collaboration with international partners to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, which poses a significant threat to our marine resources.
“I look forward to our continued collaboration in building a sustainable and thriving fishing industry for the current and future generations” she expressed hope.
Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah, Western Regional Minster mentioned that fisherfolk, constitutes about 30 percent of Ghana’s population.
Therefore, he said “we appreciate and value the work of fishermen and fishmongers and that government, is doing it best to ensure good standard of living for you all”.
Nana Jojo Solomon, President of the Ghana National Canoe Council praised the minster for ensuring that policies and regulations under the fisheries sector are adhere to. He advised that marine protected areas should be observed by all fishermen to ensure sustainable fishing in all the coastal areas.
Obrepong Hema Dekyi XIV, Chief of Upper Dixcove praised the Ministry Fisheries and Acquaculture for hosting the Closed Season in the Ahanta West Municipality.
“Involving stakeholders in the industry in your ministry makes the implementation of certain policies easy” he said.
He called on fisherfolk to observe the Closed Season to ensure it success.
Food items such as bags of rice, carton off cooling oil, boxes of tin tomatoes and boxes of tin fish as well as wire mesh and pans were distributed to the fisherfolk.
