The government of Ghana has secured renewed support from Norway for major fisheries development projects in the Western Region, with plans advancing for the construction of a modern fishing harbour in Shama and the rollout of a plastic recycling initiative aimed at tackling marine pollution.
The announcement comes at a time when Ghana’s fisheries sector continues to grapple with declining fish stocks, unemployment among coastal youth and growing concerns over the sustainability of marine resources.
Speaking during a visit to the Apo fishing community in the Shama District, the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Emelia Arthur, disclosed that plans for the long-awaited fishing harbour are at an advanced stage.
The project, she said, is expected to transform fish landing and handling operations in the district, create jobs and stimulate economic activity in one of Ghana’s key fishing communities.
Addressing fisherfolk, traditional leaders and industry stakeholders during a community durbar, the Minister described the fisheries sector as a critical component of Ghana’s economic transformation agenda and pledged government’s commitment to revitalising coastal economies.
“We are committed to expanding job opportunities within the fishing sector and improving living conditions in our coastal communities. Sustainable fisheries management must go hand in hand with livelihood development,” she stated.
The Minister also announced plans for a plastic recycling project that will seek to reduce marine pollution while creating alternative sources of income for residents.
The visit formed part of a two-day working tour of the Western Region undertaken jointly by the Fisheries Ministry and the Norwegian delegation.
Norwegian Ambassador to Ghana, John Mikal Kvistad, reaffirmed his country’s longstanding support for Ghana’s fisheries sector and highlighted the impact of Norway’s Fish for Development Programme.
According to him, the programme has contributed significantly to fisheries governance, research, technical support and capacity building efforts in Ghana.
The Ambassador further revealed that discussions are underway on a new bilateral cooperation framework known as “Oceans for Development”, which is expected to deepen collaboration between the two countries in marine sustainability, ocean governance and responsible fisheries management.
The proposed framework is expected to build on the gains made under the Fish for Development Programme while responding to emerging challenges facing coastal communities and marine ecosystems.
The visit also provided an opportunity for the Norwegian delegation to engage directly with fisherfolk and community leaders on challenges confronting the sector, including dwindling catches, environmental degradation and the need for increased investment in fishing infrastructure.
The engagements ended with both Ghana and Norway reaffirming their commitment to strengthening cooperation and ensuring that coastal communities benefit from sustainable fisheries resources, job creation and the development of a resilient blue economy.
