Accra: The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture (MoFA), in collaboration with the Fisheries Commission, has announced the 2025 closed season for Ghana's marine fishing fleet. At a press conference, Sector Minister Madam Emelia Arthur stated that industrial trawlers will observe a two-month closure from July 1 to August 31, while semi-industrial inshore vessels will close for one month from July 1 to 31.
According to Ghana News Agency, Madam Emelia Arthur emphasized that marine canoe artisanal fishers are exempted from the 2025 closed season. However, she noted that the exemption does not excuse them from adhering to other traditional and statutory fisheries regulations. The closed season is identified as a crucial management tool aimed at ensuring the sustainability of marine resources and the long-term viability of the fishing sector.
She reiterated the importance of observing Tuesday fishing holidays, a traditional measure enforced by the Fisheries Commission and local governing bodies. This practice is part of the ongoing efforts to maintain marine resource sustainability.
Furthermore, Madam Arthur strongly advised all fishers to avoid illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing practices. Such activities, including light fishing and the use of harmful chemicals or explosives, pose significant risks to the marine ecosystem and human health, ultimately threatening the livelihoods of coastal communities.
To ensure compliance with the closed season, the Fisheries Enforcement Unit, along with other relevant agencies, will actively enforce the closure, implementing strict penalties for any violations. The Ministry plans to work closely with local authorities, community leaders, and fishers to raise awareness of responsibilities during the closed period. Stakeholders are encouraged to report violations to aid in effective enforcement.
Additionally, Madam Arthur revealed plans to establish Landing Beach Enforcement Committees (LABEC), comprising trained local fishers to monitor activities. The Ministry is also collaborating with marine scientists to assess the biological, social, and economic impact of the closure and explore the creation of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) to support long-term sustainability.
