The Chief Executive Officer of New Gulf Fishing Company Limited and Nduman Fisheries Company Limited, Ms. Illona Appiah, has paid a courtesy call on the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Hon. Emelia Arthur, this week, to discuss transformative ideas aimed at improving Ghana’s fisheries sector.
During the meeting, Ms. Appiah presented a bold initiative to ensure that every Ghanaian fisherman owns their own fishing vessel. She also highlighted the urgent need for Ghana to invest in research vessels to support scientific exploration and sustainable fishing practices.
Another key proposal was the replacement of wood used in constructing canoes with marine-grade steel for artisanal fishers.
According to Ms. Appiah, this shift will help preserve Ghana’s forests by reducing the demand for timber, while also modernizing fishing infrastructure.
“Our waters must be protected at all costs, and these new vessels will offer sustainable solutions. This is a key step toward reducing poverty and empowering local fishers,” Ms. Appiah emphasized.
Hon. Emelia Arthur welcomed the proposal, particularly the idea of acquiring a dedicated research vessel for the fisheries sector. She expressed interest in receiving full details about its implementation and cost.
However, the Minister advised that the company must obtain the necessary permits from the Fisheries Commission before piloting any new vessel models. She also encouraged testing the new steel canoes with artisanal fishers to evaluate their performance at sea.
In closing, Hon. Arthur emphasized that any new fishing vessels introduced must be fully Ghanaian-owned, including the crew members, to ensure the initiative contributes directly to local capacity-building and economic empowerment.
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