The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture has outlined a series of reforms aimed at improving the sustainability, productivity and economic contribution of Ghana’s fisheries sector as part of government’s broader efforts to strengthen food security, create jobs and advance blue economy opportunities.
Speaking at the Ministry’s Mid-Year Media Engagement held in Accra on Wednesday, 22 July 2026, the Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Emelia Arthur, said the government’s fisheries reset agenda is focused on building a resilient sector capable of supporting livelihoods while protecting marine resources for future generations.
The engagement, held under the theme “Resetting Ghana’s Fisheries Sector for Sustainability, Jobs and Blue Economy Growth,” was used by the Ministry to account for its programmes, reforms and policy interventions since February 2025.
Emelia Arthur said the sustainability of Ghana’s fisheries resources remains critical to economic development, given the sector’s role in employment, household incomes and national food supply. She described the engagement as fundamentally about accountability, stating that “Ghana’s fisheries resources belong to the people of Ghana and that the Government has a responsibility to manage them sustainably for the benefit of current and future generations.”
Among the key interventions highlighted by the Minister was the passage of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, 2025 (Act 1146), which provides a strengthened legal framework for managing the sector. The Ministry also cited the establishment of Ghana’s first Marine Protected Area at Cape Three Points as part of efforts to conserve marine ecosystems and promote long-term resource sustainability.
The Ministry further highlighted strengthened measures against illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, as well as reforms in premix fuel distribution aimed at improving transparency and efficiency within the fishing value chain.
Ghana’s fisheries industry continues to face pressures from declining fish stocks, illegal fishing activities and challenges affecting the livelihoods of fishing communities, prompting the government to introduce reforms aimed at restoring sustainability and improving sector performance. The government has positioned sustainable fisheries management as a key component of its blue economy strategy, which seeks to unlock economic opportunities from marine resources while ensuring environmental protection.
Emelia Arthur noted that while challenges remain, the government’s agenda is focused on “building a productive, resilient and sustainable fisheries sector” that can support employment, improve food security and contribute to economic growth.
The Minister also emphasized the importance of collaboration among key stakeholders, including fisherfolk, industry players, development partners and the media, in implementing reforms and improving public awareness of issues affecting the sector.
The media engagement provided an opportunity for journalists to engage the Ministry on ongoing policies and interventions, with discussions focusing on transparency, accountability and the need for sustained public participation in safeguarding Ghana’s fisheries resources.
