President Nana Akufo-Addo has inaugurated the Aquaculture for Food and Jobs programme, spearheaded by the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development.
This initiative aims to train 10,000 young Ghanaians over the next six months, as part of a broader strategy to foster sustainable development and job creation.
During his address to the community in Nsuaem, Gomoa Central District, Central Region, President Akufo-Addo highlighted that this programme is a key component of his administration’s efforts to cultivate a thriving aquaculture sector.
The goal is to generate employment, increase fish consumption, and better utilize underused water resources.
The initiative is being rolled out in collaboration with R&B Farms, the nation’s largest fish farm, located in the same district. The programme will provide participants with training, startup capital, fingerlings, and fish feed to help them establish their own aquaculture enterprises.
President Akufo-Addo encouraged the youth to seize this opportunity to support their families, meet domestic fish demand, and improve nutrition. He also called on private investors to contribute to the programme’s success and foster job creation and economic growth.
Mrs. Mavis Hawa Koomson, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, emphasized that the programme aims to revitalize the fishing industry, which has been struggling due to illegal fishing practices and water pollution. She revealed that each trainee would receive GH¢38,700 in startup capital and allowances, with an anticipated return of GH¢70,000 from sales to enhance their living standards.
Mrs. Justina Marigold Assan, Central Regional Minister, clarified that this initiative is a nationwide effort, not limited to the Central Region. She praised R&B Farms for its significant role in the partnership and the potential benefits for Ghanaian youth.
Mr. Ekow Quansah, CEO of R&B Farms, expressed the programme’s commitment to providing employment opportunities for both educated and uneducated young people.
He urged external partners to continue supporting the initiative to ensure its long-term success and poverty reduction.
