The Vice President and flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has unveiled an ambitious plan to transition the local fishing industry from its dependence on premix fuel to solar-powered outboard motors.
The move is aimed at addressing the long-standing challenges surrounding the supply and distribution of premix fuel, a vital resource for fisherfolk across the country.
Speaking during a campaign stop in Saltpond, located in the Mfantseman constituency in the Central Region, Dr. Bawumia outlined the plan, which he described as a permanent solution to the issues that have plagued the country’s fishing communities for decades.
Despite previous attempts to resolve the problem—including the installation of automated premix fuel dispensers at landing beaches—Dr. Bawumia acknowledged that these measures had not fully addressed the persistent shortages and inefficiencies.
“When we came into office, we introduced premix automation. In Mfantseman and other places, these machines have helped, but they haven’t completely solved the problem,” Dr. Bawumia said, addressing an enthusiastic crowd of fisherfolk.
“The issue is still there, and I’ve been thinking about how we can solve it once and for all. I believe the solution lies in solar power.”
Dr. Bawumia’s proposal centers on outfitting fishing boats with solar-powered outboard motors, eliminating the need for premix fuel.
“I want us to move away from the dependency on premix fuel,” he said. “Instead, let’s transition to solar power for the boats. With solar-powered outboard motors, fishermen won’t need to worry about fuel shortages or the cost of premix. As long as the sun shines, their batteries will charge, and they can go out to sea.”
According to the Vice President, the initiative will begin with a pilot program scheduled to launch before the end of the year, with trials likely starting as early as next month. The government plans to provide fishermen with the necessary equipment and training to ensure a smooth transition.
Dr. Bawumia emphasized that the pilot phase will allow fisherfolk to familiarize themselves with the new technology and witness its effectiveness firsthand.
The announcement is expected to be a significant milestone in addressing widespread concerns within the fishing sector. Over the years, the distribution of premix fuel has been marred by allegations of fraud, with reports of smuggling and the diversion of fuel meant for fisherfolk to other markets.
Dr. Bawumia acknowledged these challenges, stating, “There is too much ‘kululu’ (fraud) in the premix fuel system. It’s time to take those issues out of the equation. Solar-powered outboard motors will allow us to do that, and we will finally solve this problem.”
The Vice President further explained that once the solar-powered motors are deployed, there will no longer be a need for premix fuel to power fishing boats, making the entire process more sustainable and cost-effective for fisherfolk.
He also indicated that discussions will be held with fishing communities over the coming weeks to finalize the rollout.
“We will have meetings with the fishermen soon to discuss how this will work,” Dr. Bawumia said. “The pilot program will take place next month, and from there, we will introduce a new regime for fisherfolk.”
If successful, the introduction of solar-powered outboard motors could mark a transformative shift in the country’s fishing industry, potentially setting a precedent for other coastal nations facing similar challenges. The move aligns with global efforts to incorporate renewable energy into traditionally fossil-fuel-dependent sectors, contributing to both economic and environmental sustainability.
The announcement was met with overwhelming approval from the assembled crowd in Saltpond, many of whom have long been frustrated by the recurring premix fuel shortages and the high cost of fueling their boats. Fisherfolk, who form a critical part of Ghana’s coastal economy, expressed optimism that this new solution would finally bring much-needed relief to their communities.
