The Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Hawa Koomson, has issued a stern warning to fishermen against engaging in illegal fishing practices as Ghana’s annual fishing closed season commences.
At a ceremony in Dixcove, Western Region, marking the start of the closed season, Koomson emphasized that violators would face severe consequences.
The closed season, a yearly initiative aimed at replenishing marine fisheries resources, will last for a month. The government has pledged to rigorously enforce the ban to ensure the sustainability of Ghana’s fisheries.
Koomson specifically warned against landing fish at the Togo border and using unauthorized fishing gear. “More so, there shall be no more use of monofilament nets and any unauthorized fishing gear after the opening of the season,” she stated.
Despite supporting the initiative, some fishermen in Dixcove voiced concerns about the lack of government assistance, particularly the insufficient supply of premix fuel before the ban.
One fisherman lamented, “They should have brought us adequate premix before the ban on fishing so we could save up. The closed fishing season is going to make feeding very difficult, and the government should implement measures to alleviate our hardship.”
The Western Regional Minister, Kwabena Okyere Darko Mensah, highlighted Dixcove’s crucial role, noting that it contributes over 90% of Ghana’s tuna output, making it an ideal location for the national closed season ceremony.
Stephen Adjo Katcher, President of the Ghana Industrial Trawlers Association, acknowledged the necessity of the ban but raised concerns about the high costs of fishing gear and fuel. He urged the government to address these financial challenges to support the industry.
The closed season aims to strike a balance between conservation and the livelihoods of the fishing communities, ensuring a sustainable future for Ghana’s marine resources.
