Accra: Madam Emelia Arthur, the Minister-designate for Fisheries and Aquaculture, announced plans to merge indigenous knowledge with scientific approaches to enhance the country's fisheries sector. During her vetting by the Appointments Committee of Parliament, she expressed her ambition to leave a legacy of an improved fisheries industry, increased fish stock, and job creation for the youth.
According to Ghana News Agency, Madam Arthur assured that the Ministry would collaborate with other ministries, including the Environment, Science, Innovation and Technology, and the Lands and Natural Resources, to address the illegal mining issues impacting the aquaculture business. She emphasized the need for a multi-sectoral approach to resolve the illegal mining menace to support the aquaculture sector's growth.
Madam Arthur expressed her desire for the long-awaited Fisheries College in Anomabo in the Central Region, which began in 2013, to become operational during her tenure. Additionally, she addressed the European Union's ban on fish exports from the country, mentioning that she intends to continue efforts initiated by the previous government to lift the 'Yellow Card' and finalize the process to remove the ban completely.
The nominee committed to implementing measures to curb illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing activities, aiming for a comprehensive approach to improve fishing practices and ensure sustainability within the sector.
