Despite the numerous gains from the fisheries sector, challenges of overfishing, illegal fishing, and climate change still linger, threatening the sustainability of Ghana’s fisheries resources,Wa East Member of Parliament,Honourable Dr Godfred Seidu Jasaw has said.
In a statement delivered in the House of parliament to commemorate World Fishing Day,Honourable Dr Jasaw highlighted the urgent need to salvage the sector from significant challenges, including declining fish stocks, degraded marine ecosystems, and economic vulnerability among artisanal fishers and fishmongers.
These challenges,Dr. Jasaw disclosed have resulted in reduced fish catches, loss of income for fishermen, and increased poverty in coastal communities.
The Honourable Member of Parliament maintained that the degradation of marine ecosystems, which includes the destruction of mangrove forests and pollution, has further exacerbated the crisis.
To address the challenges enumerated, Dr. Jasaw emphasized the need for a reset in the fisheries sector, with a focus on sustainable management practices, empowerment of fishmongers, and recognizing role of chief fishermen in managing fisheries resources.
The government, he noted, has proposed measures to address the crisis, including promoting aquaculture, expanding monitoring systems to curb illegal fishing, and establishing marine protected areas.
That notwithstanding, the Honourable Member indicated that more needs to be done to ensure the long-term sustainability of the sector.
As Ghana’s fisheries sector continues to face these challenges, the legislator is calling for urgent action to address the crisis and secure the future of the industry.
Story by Prosper Kwaku Selassy Agbitor
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