The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Gomoa Central, Mr. Benjamin Kojo Otoo, has presented fingerlings to 50 aquaculture trainees as part of efforts to boost local fish production and enhance economic development.
This initiative, which supports the “Aquaculture for Food and Jobs” program by the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture, is aimed at providing economic opportunities for the youth in the region.
Each trainee received 1,700 fingerlings, six bags of fish feed, and a tarpaulin pond, with the total package amounting to GHC 38,000.
This support is part of the government’s broader plan to address the declining fish stocks in Ghana’s oceans, which have been impacted by illegal fishing and environmental degradation caused by illegal mining (galamsey).
Mr. Otoo emphasized that the initiative is a response to the diminishing ocean fish stocks due to pollution and illegal activities. He expressed confidence that aquaculture could serve as an alternative for economic empowerment, especially for the youth, and help alleviate poverty in the district.
Aquaculture in Ghana has seen significant developments recently, driven by both governmental and private sector initiatives aimed at boosting production and ensuring sustainability.
The government’s Aquaculture Development Plan targets a 136% increase in fish farming output from 89,376 tonnes in 2021 to 211,697 tonnes by 2027. This ambitious goal aims to address the growing demand for fish and reduce the pressure on natural marine resources.
A key part of this growth strategy includes the establishment of the National Aquaculture Center, which is expected to produce 50,000 metric tons of fish over the next five years.
The Center will also serve as a training facility for young entrepreneurs, particularly university graduates, providing them with the skills and knowledge required for modern aquaculture practices.
While Ghana’s aquaculture sector has great potential, several challenges persist, including the high cost of fish feed, which hampers the profitability of fish farms. Efforts are underway to address these bottlenecks, such as collaborations between research institutions and the private sector to develop alternative, cost-effective feed solutions.
Additionally, environmental standards and fish health practices are being improved, with new fish health laboratories being set up across the country.
A beneficiary, Mr. Fredrick Otoo from the Gomoa Aboso Electoral Area, expressed gratitude for the government’s support, noting that the initiative would significantly improve their livelihoods and provide long-term economic benefits.
These initiatives are expected to boost Ghana’s aquaculture sector and ensure a sustainable supply of fish, contributing significantly to food security and economic development in the country.
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