Ghana and Norway are expanding cooperation in the fisheries sector with new plans for a modern fishing harbour and a plastic recycling initiative in the Shama District, to strengthen landing infrastructure, create jobs, and boost coastal economic activity.
The initiatives were announced during a visit by the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Emelia Arthur, and Norway’s Ambassador to Ghana, John Mikal Kvistad, to the Apo fishing community in the Western Region as part of a two-day working tour focused on fisheries development and coastal livelihoods.
The proposed fishing harbour, which the Minister said is at an advanced planning stage, is expected to improve fish handling and landing operations while supporting local economic growth and employment creation. The planned recycling project will target marine plastic pollution while creating alternative income opportunities for residents.
Speaking at a community engagement with fisherfolk and traditional authorities, Arthur said the government remains committed to expanding opportunities within the sector and improving conditions in coastal communities, stressing that “sustainable fisheries management” must be accompanied by livelihood development and job creation.
The projects form part of broader efforts to strengthen Ghana’s fisheries and aquaculture industry, which the Minister described as an important contributor to economic transformation and coastal development.
Norway also indicated plans to expand its development cooperation with Ghana through a proposed framework known as “Oceans for Development,” which is currently under discussion between the two countries.
Ambassador Kvistad said the initiative would build on the achievements of the Fish for Development Programme, which has supported fisheries governance, scientific research, and institutional capacity building in Ghana. He noted that future cooperation would focus on “ocean governance,” marine sustainability, and responsible fisheries management.
Engagements with communities in the Western Region also provided an opportunity for officials to assess challenges facing the sector, gather stakeholder concerns, and identify areas for increased investment and technical cooperation.
