The Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Ms. Emelia Arthur, has announced the revocation of fishing licences for four industrial trawlers found to have repeatedly violated Ghana’s fisheries laws.
Addressing journalists during the Government’s Accountability Series on Wednesday, the Minister said the measure is part of broader efforts to promote responsible and sustainable fishing practices in the country’s aquaculture and marine sectors.
“We have suspended the licences of four trawlers for multiple regulatory violations,” she said.
“In fact, yesterday and today, the Fisheries Enforcement Unit (FEU), led by the Ghana Navy, has been active at some of our key fishing ports to enforce compliance,” she added.
She revealed that, earlier on Wednesday morning, the FEU arrested individuals engaged in the illegal sale of premix fuel, a heavily subsidised product meant to support artisanal fishers.
Ms. Arthur reaffirmed her ministry’s commitment to protecting Ghana’s fish stocks and securing the livelihoods of artisanal fishing communities through robust enforcement of the country’s fisheries regulations.
“In line with the government’s manifesto commitment, Cabinet has approved the formation of an inter-ministerial and inter-sectoral technical team to develop a national blue economy strategy for Ghana,” she disclosed.
The Minister said the strategy will provide a coordinated policy framework for managing the country’s ocean resources while advancing economic growth, food security, and environmental sustainability.
She assured stakeholders that the government remains determined to implement reforms that promote transparency, deter illegal fishing practices, and restore Ghana’s marine ecosystems.
