The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development (MoFAD) has lifted the ban on fishing.
This follows a month-long closure of the fishing season which was implemented by the government to replenish dwindling fish stocks.
The Ministry for Fisheries and Aquaculture held a ceremony at the Akplabanya Beach Site in the Ada West District of the Greater Accra Region to symbolically mark the lifting of the ban for artisanal and inshore fleets.
In her address, the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Mavis Hawa Koomson, called on all stakeholders to participate in the conservation of Ghana’s marine resources.
“The close fishing season is a strategy adopted by the ministry and the fisheries commission to contribute to the recovery of the over-exploited fisheries resources, rebuilding of the depleted fish species and reduced fishing pressure on the fisheries resources”.
She continued, “So, I would urge the people of Upper Manya in the Ada West to let us move forward with a renewed sense of dedication to conserving our precious marine resources. May this season bring abundant catches and prosperity in the fisheries and aquaculture sector”.
It will be recalled that during the announcement of the 2024 closed season date, the Member of Parliament for Ewutu Senya East Constituency emphasized that the period served several purposes.
First, it allows fish stock to replenish and regenerate, preventing overfishing and depletion of marine resources. This is particularly important for species that are vulnerable to overfishing, such as tilapia and sardines.
“By giving them a chance to breed and multiply, we can ensure their continued availability for future generations. Second, the closed season enables fishers to maintain their gear and vessels, reducing the likelihood of accidents and improving the overall safety of fishing operations”.
This break also provides an opportunity for fishers to engage in alternative income-generating activities, thereby diversifying their livelihoods and reducing their dependence on a single source of income.
Finally, the closed season facilitates research and monitoring of fish populations, enabling scientists to assess the health of our marine ecosystems and inform evidence-based management decisions.