Fisherfolk across Ghana’s Central Region are urging the government and the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development to reinstate the closed fishing season policy, citing its critical role in restoring marine life and protecting livelihoods.
In an interview, Mr. Kojo Mensah, a respected fisherman and community leader in Elmina, said more than 90% of fishermen in the region support the reintroduction of the policy, which they associate with healthier fish stocks and improved earnings during previous years of implementation.
Mr. Mensah noted that the group had held initial discussions with officials at the Ministry, who assured them of plans to reintroduce the seasonal ban.
“Our own experience and data prove that the closed season helps fish populations regenerate. When fishing resumes, we catch more and earn more. It’s a win-win for us and the ocean,” he stated.
He added that the fishing communities are growing impatient with the delay and are prepared to protest if the policy is not promptly reinstated.
“The Ministry made a promise, and we are holding them to it. This policy not only sustains our livelihoods but also contributes to national food security and marine conservation,” Mr. Mensah emphasised.
The call for action comes amid rising concerns over declining fish stocks, driven by overfishing, illegal practices, and environmental degradation along Ghana’s coastline.
The closed fishing season, previously observed annually, is intended to provide a critical breeding window for fish species, allowing marine ecosystems to recover and ensuring sustainability for future generations of fishers.
Fishermen say they are fully ready to comply with the directive as soon as it is officially announced and are confident that its return will bring positive outcomes, including larger catches and higher household incomes.
The policy is seen as a crucial measure to strike a balance between economic activity and environmental preservation, especially as many coastal communities depend heavily on fishing as a primary source of income and nutrition.
