The Minister for Fisheries and Aqua Culture, Hawa Koomson, has issued a stern caution to fishermen regarding illegal fishing activities, coinciding with the launch of Ghana’s annual fishing closed season.
Addressing attendees at a ceremony in Dixcove, Western Region, marking the commencement of the closed season, Hawa Koomson emphasized the severe consequences for violating the ban.
The closed season, a regular fixture in Ghana’s fishing industry aimed at replenishing marine resources, will span a month. The government has assured strict enforcement to safeguard the sustainability of Ghana’s fisheries.
However, fishermen in Dixcove voiced concerns over the government’s inadequate provision of support and premix fuel ahead of the closed season, affecting their ability to sustain their families during this period.
Kwabena Okyere Darko Mensah, the Western Regional Minister, highlighted Dixcove’s significant role, contributing over 90% of Ghana’s Tuna output and serving as a pivotal location for the national closed season ceremony.
Stephen Adjo Katcher, President of the Ghana Industrial Trawlers Association, while welcoming the ban, expressed apprehensions about the financial strain due to the high costs of fishing gear parts and fuel.
