At a high-level session hosted by the Accountability Research Center (ARC) at the AH Hotel in East Legon, Accra, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Hon. Emelia Arthur underlined the government’s commitment to a sustainable and inclusive fisheries sector.
The gathering, which had as its theme “Advancing Sustainable Fisheries and Fisher Organizing Initiatives in Ghana,” brought together international experts, labor unions, fisher organizations, and government stakeholders.
Findings from a six-country study on organizational tactics and fisher-led solutions for maintaining livelihoods and fisheries were shared at the workshop.
The gathering is part of the Fisher Learning Exchange series, which connects research and grassroots viewpoints to improve accountability, transparency, and engagement in the fisheries industry. It is organized by the ARC, a program under American University’s School of International Service.
Hon. Emelia Arthur highlighted the importance of the fishing industry to Ghana’s economic growth in her speech, pointing to its contributions to GDP, employment, foreign exchange revenues, and the country’s food and nutrition security.
She also emphasized the increased danger of illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, characterizing it as a serious issue that jeopardizes sustainability initiatives and results in large financial losses.
The new Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, which promotes the long-term livelihoods and well-being of Ghana’s fishermen while also bolstering regulatory compliance, was also announced by the Minister.
“This new law is a testament to our unwavering commitment to a resilient, equitable, and future-proof fisheries and aquaculture sector,” she stated.
Source: newsthemegh.com