The Inland Chief Fishermen, Queen Processors and Traders Council in the Oti Region, has appealed to the government to appoint a deputy minister for fisheries and aquaculture development from the inland region.
This move, the Council hope, would help promote the development of the inland fisheries sector and address the unique challenges faced by inland fishermen.
The Council speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), noted that appointing Mr. Geoffrey Kini, Member of Parliament (MP) for Nkwanta South, would be ideal, adding that the MP had a deep understanding of inland fisheries sector and the challenges they faced.
Mr. Akpaglo Nyameko, President of the Council, emphasized that the appointment of a deputy minister from the inland region would provide a much needed voice for inland fishermen.
He said it would also help to address the specific challenges faced by the sector, including limited access to markets, inadequate infrastructure and unsustainable fishing practices.
Queenmother Olivia Ayittey, appealed to President John Dramani Mahama to address the pressing concerns of her communities, especially the issue of premix fuel, lamenting that her people have been denied access to such an essential resource, which was crucial for their fishing and processing activities.
The queenmother emphasized the need for President Mahama to appoint someone with expertise in fisheries and aquaculture development to help accelerate their work.
The move, she believed would greatly benefit her community members and ensure their livelihoods were protected.
Togbe Dordoe III, Ewe Chief on Chonke land and leader of inland chief fishermen, said the Oti region is home to several major water bodies, including the Volta Lake, which provides livelihoods for thousands of fishermen. However, the region’s fisheries sector faced numerous challenges, including overfishing and climate change impact.
Togbe Dordoe said appointment of a deputy minister for fisheries and aquaculture development from the inland region would be a significant step towards in addressing those challenges.
The chief told GNA that it would also demonstrate the government’s commitment to supporting the development of the inland fisheries sector and improving the livelihoods of inland fishermen.
