Accra: Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Madam Emelia Arthur has vowed to enforce the law against fishers engaged in illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing across Ghana's coastal communities. She made the remarks at a media engagement in Accra on challenges confronting the fisheries sector, particularly the use of dynamite, DDT, carbide, and light fishing, which she said continued to endanger marine ecosystems and public health.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Minister emphasized her commitment to taking decisive action, asserting, "I'm not a pushover, I don't work because of political expediency, I walk the talk, and I will crack the whip on fishers engaged in illegalities." She noted that specific beaches in various communities and regions, especially those frequented by artisanal fishers, would face legal consequences for non-compliance with fishing laws.
The Fisheries Enforcement Unit, comprising personnel from the Ghana Navy and Marine Police, is collaborating with the Minister's office and the Ministers for Defence and Interior to ensure strict compliance. Madam Arthur stated, "I am in conversation with my colleagues, Interior and Defence Ministers, so that together we can use the little resources we have to ensure that we crack the whip. Trust me, we do what we say."
She also addressed allegations of collusion within the Fisheries Ministry and Fisheries Commission, warning that staff involved would face repercussions. The Minister urged Chief Fishermen and fishing association leaders to educate their communities on the dangers of IUU fishing and called on the media to avoid publishing stories that defend offenders.
The meeting saw participation from various stakeholders, including fishers, canoe owners, fishmongers, and NGOs. Nii Adotei Akwei IV, Chief Fisherman of Kokrobite, praised the Minister for her role in the passage of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Bill, 2025, and for extending the inshore exclusive zone for artisanal fishers from 6 nautical miles to 12 nautical miles.
Madam Millicent Aggrey, a canoe owner, highlighted the need for enforcement in Edina and Elmina due to rampant violations. She also voiced concerns about the distribution of premix fuel, citing issues of hoarding and inflated pricing by officials who intimidate fishers under the guise of political authority.
