The Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Mavis Hawa Koomson, has warned fishermen planning to land their fish catch at the Togo border during the closed season to desist from such act. “Be warned that the Ministry, together with the Marine Enforcement Unit, will apprehend and charge fishermen, who will go on with their intention.
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The Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Mavis Hawa Koomson, has warned fishermen planning to land their fish catch at the Togo border during the closed season to desist from such act.
“Be warned that the Ministry, together with the Marine Enforcement Unit, will apprehend and charge fishermen, who will go on with their intention. Moreso, there shall be no more use of monofilament nets and any unauthorized fishing gears after the opening of the season,” she warned.
She also indicated: “Let us remember that the health of our oceans is directly linked to the health of our communities. By protecting our marine resources today, we are securing a prosperous future for our offspring. Let us all play our part in ensuring the success of this year’s Closed Fishing Season.”
The Fisheries Minister gave the warning at a symbolic closure of the sea at Upper Dixcove in the Ahanta West Municipality of the Western Region.
She explained that the annual event is crucial not only for the sustainability of marine resources but also for the long-term livelihood of the fishing communities.
“This season has been a period of reflection, rejuvenation and renewal for our marine ecosystems, and today, we celebrate the positive strides we have made towards sustainable fishing practices. I understand the immense importance of our fishing industry. It is the backbone of many of our coastal communities, providing food, employment, and cultural identity,” she said.
She further noted that catches from both the marine and inland sources are fast declining, threatening the very existence of the populace.
This is due to overfishing and unsustainable practices which have put the marine ecosystems at risk which again threatens the very foundation of this vital sector, she noted.
“The Closed Fishing Season is an essential measure designed to give our fish stock the opportunity to replenish. During this period, we are giving our marine resources the chance to recover, ensuring that future generations can continue to benefit from the ocean’s abundance. This initiative, is in line with our commitment to sustainable fisheries management and the preservation of biodiversity in our waters,” she said.
In addition to the Closed Fishing Season, she said the Ministry is implementing several other measures to ensure the sustainability of the fisheries sector.
These include the enforcement of fishing regulations, promotion of responsible fishing practices and investment in scientific research to better understand the marine ecosystems.
“We are also enhancing our collaboration with international partners to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, which poses a significant threat to our marine resources.”
Western Region Minister Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah mentioned that fisherfolk constitutes about 30 percent of Ghana’s population.
Therefore, he said “we appreciate and value the work of fishermen and fishmongers and that government, is doing it best to ensure good standard of living for you all”.
Chief of Upper Dixcove Obrepong Hema Dekyi XIV praised the Ministry Fisheries and Aquaculture Development for hosting the Closed Season in the Ahanta West Municipality.
The post Hawa Koomson warns fishermen after announcing closed season first appeared on 3News.
