Fisherfolk in several coastal communities within the Keta Municipality of the Volta Region are recording bumper fish harvests this season, thanks to favourable weather and good fishing conditions.
Communities such as Tetekope, Abutiakope, Vodza, and Kedzi are witnessing unusually high catches of tilapia, anchovies, and other fish species. While the plentiful harvest has brought relief and excitement to many, it has also exposed a serious problem, a lack of ready markets for the surplus fish.
Simon Tettevi, a fisherman in Keta, said that the increased catch is largely due to the rainy season, which has created ideal conditions for fishing.
“We are harvesting a lot, but despite the abundance of fish, we don’t have a ready market to sell. Many of us end up selling on credit, which means we could lose a lot of money,” he said.
He explained that although the bumper catch has driven down prices in local markets, a relief for consumers, the situation is hurting the income of fisherfolk who depend on daily sales for survival.
“We used to take our fish to Agbozume, Aflao, Sogakope, and Akatsi,” he said. “But now, all coastal communities are also having bumper harvests, so the markets are flooded. Supply is high, but demand is very low.”
The oversupply has created a ripple effect on the local economy, leaving many fishmongers and traders with unsold stock and potential losses.
Tettevi appealed to government and relevant authorities to intervene with measures to stabilize the market, such as improving distribution networks or facilitating export options.
Mawulorm Woashie, a fishmonger in Vodza, also urged stakeholders to take collective action to support the fishing industry and ensure its long-term sustainability.
“We are happy about the bumper harvest, but we are also worried. Without proper storage facilities and organized markets, much of our fish will go to waste,” she lamented.
She called for investment in cold storage facilities, modern processing equipment, and innovative preservation techniques to reduce post-harvest losses.
She also expressed concern about the broader impact of climate change and illegal fishing practices on Ghana’s marine ecosystem, warning that without proactive measures, future fish stocks could decline sharply.
“The government and stakeholders must prioritise the fishing industry, promote sustainable fishing practices, and protect our waters,” she said.
Meanwhile, the Keta Municipal Assembly and other local authorities have pledged to assist the fisherfolk with improved infrastructure and equipment to enhance productivity and protect livelihoods.
Fisherfolk are also appealing to individuals, restaurants, hotels, and institutions to purchase locally caught fish to sustain the fishing communities, promote food security, and boost the local economy.
“Buying from us supports our families and keeps the fishing tradition alive,” Woashie added.
Despite the challenges, optimism remains high among the coastal communities that timely intervention could turn this year’s bumper harvest into lasting prosperity.
