Emelia Arthur, Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, has officially swore in a new 12-member Board of the Fisheries Commission, a crucial step in implementing the country’s amended fisheries governance system under the new Fisheries Act 1146.
The new law’s provisions, which increase institutional representation to improve supervision and provide a more coordinated approach to managing Ghana’s fisheries resources, are followed in the Board’s reconstitution.
The Minister emphasised the significance of the Board’s function during the inauguration event, characterising their appointment as “not just administrative, but a national calling.”
She called on members to commit to furthering Ghana’s Blue Economy vision, exhibit good environmental stewardship, and maintain the highest levels of accountability.
She states that the Board is required to promote a vision of a resilient, well-governed, and sustainable fishing industry that promotes food security, generates good jobs, and significantly boosts the country’s economy.
Prof. Wisdom Akpalu is the chair of the recently established Board, which consists of members from important state institutions and business stakeholders.
Other participants consist of:
* Dr. Afisah Zakariah, representing the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture
* Prof. Benjamin Betey Campion, representing the Fisheries Commission
* Mubarick Masawudu, representing the Ghana Maritime Authority
* Commodore Ben Baba Abdul, representing the Ghana Navy
* Eric Ken Winful, representing the Ghana Police Service
* Esi Nana Nerquaye-Tetteh, representing the Environmental Protection Authority
* Stephen Yeboah Ampiaw, representing the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority
* Ruby Asmah, representing the Fisheries and Aquaculture Research Institute
* Esi Biney, representing Water Resources
* Emmanuel Allegye-Cudjoe, representing the Veterinary Services Directorate
* Frank Kwesi Alhoon, representing the Ghana Tuna Association
It is anticipated that the Board’s varied membership would improve interagency cooperation and apply technical know-how to important matters including industry regulation, marine conservation, and sustainable fisheries management.
With its mandate now in effect, the Board will be crucial in determining the course of policy and guaranteeing the long-term viability of Ghana’s fishing industry.
Source: newsthemegh.com