According to the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, plans for the acquisition of research vessels and patrol boats for the sector are well underway.
According to the ministry, the move is to ensure regular research on the characteristics of the sea and fish stock to aid in the implementation of strategies to effectively manage the fisheries industry.
Speaking at the 7th meeting of ministers in charge of fisheries and aquaculture of the organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS), Sector Minister, Mavis Hawa Koomson said the acquisition of the patrol boats is to intensify measures to curb illegal fishing practices.
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“Strategic plans for fisheries and aquaculture will receive much attention in the processes. Patronise fish and aquaculture infrastructural development as a key strategy to transform and modernise the sector into an economic and viable sector that will contribute to the national investment and also improve the livelihoods of citizens. Activities are far advanced for the acquisition of research vessels, and 4 patrol boats for the fisheries sector in Ghana.”
“The research vessels will ensure regular research on the physical, biological, and chemical characteristics of the marine waters and steps that will enhance data availability for side-based fisheries management strategies. Similarly, the acquisition of the 4 patrol boats will also enhance enforcement capacity to address the issue of over-exploitation and over-fishing as well as curb illegal fishing activities.”
