On Monday, February 10, we met with our Fisheries Minister at her office. Our discussions centered on implementing the closed season and the government’s priorities. She explained that the plan is to exempt artisanal fishers only from the Closed season for this year only. The strategy is to review and reset the closed-season implementation.
She explained that the available data reveals that 1-3 months after the Closed season the gains are dissipated due to high fishing effects and Illegal fishing activities. Also, rice, oil, and other relief items are not adequate and sustainable enough to address the needs of fishers. therefore there is a need for a holistic approach to address the issues in the sector and fish stock recovery.
Our Minister explained that the government’s priorities are introducing closed areas (MPAs) and ensuring sustainable enforcement and compliance with Fisheries laws, working closely with fishers and stakeholders. She also explained that stakeholder consultations will commence soon to discuss the pros and cons.
The team from HELP Foundation Africa, Kasa Initiative Ghana, CERATH, Nurture Nature Foundation, etc. were pleased with her explanation and we
agreed with her.
The Minister has a firm understanding of what needs to be done for our fisheries sector so let’s all support her.
Executive Director
Nurture Nature Foundation