The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development has announced plans to support aquaculture farmers who have suffered losses due to the Akosombo Dam Spillage.
Speaking at the 2023 National Fish Festival in Accra, held under the theme “Developing Ghana’s Blue Economy for Sustainable Fisheries Management and National Development”, the Deputy Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Moses Anim, said the government has compiled data on affected farmers and is set to launch a support programme to help them resume their businesses.
“Our technical branch, the Fisheries Commission, has assessed the damage and compiled data on affected farmers,” Anim said. “We are committed to supporting them and helping them get back on their feet,however,the government’s support will include the provision of financial assistance, equipment, and training to help farmers restore their aquaculture facilities and improve their livelihoods”, he stated.
Acting President of the National Fisheries Association of Ghana (NAFAG), Simon Agah, also urged the government to address challenges that hinder the sustainable management of the fisheries sector.
He emphasised the association’s key role in the national economy and the need for immediate attention to pressing issues affecting the fishery industry.
“Plastic pollution on beaches, the use of light, illegal nets, and chemicals in fishing are some of the activities that impede the progress of the sector,” Agah said.
He called for intensified efforts to educate and sensitise fishermen on sustainable fishing practices and to ensure compliance with existing regulations.