The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture has entered into a partnership with the University of Cape Coast to implement the Blue Knowledge component of Ghana’s Blue Economy Strategy 2025–2035.
Speaking at the signing ceremony in Accra on Wednesday, the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Madam Emelia Arthur, said sustainable fisheries governance must be grounded in science and coordinated knowledge systems.
She stated that implementation cannot rest on assumptions but should be based on continuous research, stock assessments, climate science, socio-economic analysis and innovation and described research as the engine of reform.
Madam Arthur emphasised that policy decisions on restoring fish stocks, expanding aquaculture, strengthening coastal resilience and tackling illegal fishing must be informed by credible, timely evidence.
Madam Arthur said the Ministry will formalise technical arrangements with the university so that research is integrated into governance structures rather than treated as a parallel activity.
She noted that protecting fish stocks, preserving coastal ecosystems and securing livelihoods depend on evidence-based decisions and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to a knowledge-driven blue economy.
On his part, the Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast, Professor Denis Worlanyo Aheto, said the university is prepared to serve as a strategic academic partner.
He noted that fisheries sustainability is linked to marine conservation, climate adaptation, aquaculture innovation and coastal livelihoods.
Under the arrangement, research will guide the rollout of sustainable fisheries reforms to be overseen by the planned Blue Economy Commission. The Ministry said the collaboration places scientific inquiry and data at the centre of policy design and implementation.
Adwoa Koramah Anokye-Gyimah, ISD
