A newly constructed fish wharf at Kpong in the Lower Manya Krobo Municipality is expected to transform local trade, improve hygiene, and enhance the economic value of fishing activities along the Volta Lake.
The GH₵1.94 million facility, developed by the Volta River Authority (VRA), aims to relocate fishmongers from the lakeside to a safer and more sustainable market environment, while supporting efforts to protect the Volta Lake ecosystem.
According to Samuel Odartey Lamptey, Acting Deputy Chief Executive of VRA, the project forms part of the Authority’s broader strategy to promote sustainable livelihoods within riparian communities and safeguard vital water resources that support trade and energy generation.
“The relocation is a strategic intervention to preserve the integrity of the Volta Lake for the benefit of all,” Mr. Lamptey said. “This project is not just about moving people, it is about creating a safer, cleaner, and more sustainable trading environment.”
Trading activities along the waterfront had previously obstructed dredging and weed-harvesting operations needed to control the spread of aquatic weeds. These weeds, if unchecked, threaten the lake’s biodiversity and water flow, both of which are critical to fishing and power production.
The new fish wharf comprises market sheds, sanitary facilities, a fence wall, roofing, electrical installations, and septic systems, components designed to modernize fish trading and reduce pollution around the waterway.
Mr. Lamptey noted that the project’s completion demonstrates what can be achieved when “environmental stewardship meets community welfare,” calling on traders to sustain the initiative through responsible use and maintenance.
John Atteh Matey, Municipal Chief Executive for Lower Manya Krobo, said the initiative responds to an urgent need to relocate traders from the informal waterfront site, which lacked safety and sanitation.
He said the project would stimulate the local economy by improving working conditions for traders and attracting more customers through enhanced market infrastructure.
“This facility will facilitate the modernization of the fisheries sector and forms part of broader efforts to maximize Ghana’s fishing potential through improved infrastructure,” Mr. Matey said.
He revealed that Kpong has been selected to benefit from the government’s 24-hour economy policy, under which a modern 24-hour market will be constructed near the Kpong Metro Mass Station to boost commercial activity.
“When the 24-hour market is completed, it will complement this new wharf to strengthen trading across Lower Manya Krobo,” he added, noting that road rehabilitation projects, including the Batorkodze road, were underway to improve access to the area.
Market Queen Mother for Kpong Fish Sellers, Madam Mary Kokroko, lauded the project as a “major improvement to traders’ livelihoods,” pledging to ensure full compliance among sellers.
“This is a big opportunity for us. As queen, I will make sure every fish seller moves into the market. Anyone who refuses will face sanctions,” she said.
The Chief of Kpong, Nene Kpabitey Nyarko II, also commended VRA for the intervention, noting that improved infrastructure and road networks would expand market access and increase fish sales.
“When the roads are improved and the area is well lit, travelers will buy fish from our women, and that will boost the local economy,” he said.
The Kpong Fish Wharf represents a key step in modernizing Ghana’s fisheries infrastructure, linking local economic development with environmental sustainability and community welfare.
