By: Sarah Baafi
In a recent courtesy visit, Norwegian Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Ingrid Mollestad, and her team congratulated the newly appointed Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Emelia Arthur, while reaffirming Norway’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s fisheries sector.
This visit underscores the strong partnership between Ghana and Norway in the fisheries industry. Norway continues to contribute to the sustainable management of Ghana’s marine fisheries through its Fish for Development (FfD) program with the Fisheries Commission.
During the meeting, Hon Emelia Arthur announced significant updates regarding the upcoming fishing season. The 2025 closed fishing season for artisanal fishers has been canceled, while inshore and industrial trawlers will still observe the closure.
This decision reflects the government’s efforts to balance conservation needs with the economic realities faced by coastal communities.
By exempting artisanal fishers, the government aims to support the livelihoods of these small-scale operators who are crucial to local food security and economic stability.
The government is exploring alternative conservation measures to protect fish stocks and ensure the long-term sustainability of Ghana’s fisheries resources.
These measures include closing specific marine areas where fish gather to rest and spawn, as well as strengthening enforcement of traditional fishing holidays in collaboration with fisherfolk.
By adopting these strategies, Ghana seeks to maintain a healthy balance between conservation efforts and the economic needs of coastal communities, ensuring that the fisheries sector remains viable for future generations.
