Government has allocated 50 million Cedis for the procurement of outboard motors and fishing equipment for fishing communities.
President John Dramani Mahama announced this during the commemoration of the 2025 World Fishing Day in Accra on Friday.
He stated that said the funds form part of a broader investment strategy to modernize Ghana’s fisheries sector.
According to the president, the government is also acquiring two new offshore patrol vessels for the Ghana Navy to strengthen enforcement and combat illegal fishing activities.
Beyond equipment distribution, Mahama said the government is establishing two new fish markets. He stated that one facility will be constructed in Dambai in the Oti region, while the second will serve Shamaz district.
The president noted that a request for a fish market in Accra will receive favorable consideration in future budget allocations.
“My administration has taken decisive steps to develop a sustainable modern fisheries sector, rooted in science, tradition and community participation,” President Mahama said at the conference.
The president said these investments complement the recent passage of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act 2025, which he described as landmark legislation establishing a modern framework for governance and enforcement.
According to him, the law aligns Ghana with international standards and enhances the country’s ability to manage its marine resources.
The President emphasized that the government is committed to integrating traditional community leadership into decision-making processes.
He pledged to restore and formalize the roles of Chief Fishermen and Green Fishmongers in fisheries management through co-management structures and community bylaws.
“The future of Ghana’s fisheries depends on what we are going to be committed to today,” the president said, calling on fishing communities to support responsible practices and work with enforcement agencies to eliminate illegal activities.
Richard Aniagyei, ISD
