The National Fisheries Association of Ghana (NAFAG) and its associated members have demanded the total cancellation of an offshore reconnaissance licence granted to Gold Coast GRC Ghana Ltd for gold exploration on Ghana’s shallow continental shelf.
NAFAG warned that a suspension alone will not address concerns over the potential threat to fisheries resources.
Presenting the Association’s position at a press conference, President of NAFAG, Nana Jojo Solomon said although President John Mahama has responded to their request for a suspension of the licence a complete cancellation is necessary to end the agitation within the fisheries sector and protect resources vital to food security, livelihoods and the national economy.
“Your Excellency your prompt response to our request for the suspension for the said licence was warmly received and appreciated by both leadership and the entire members of our member associations.
“More warming and appreciative were your kind words of appreciation of concerns raised by the National Fisheries Association of Ghana and its constituent associations particularly regarding the protection of marine resources and the livelihood of the fishing communities.
“At this juncture NAFAG, its member associations and the entire membership request the total cancellation or termination of the offshore reconnaissance licence to Gold Coast GRC,” the Association noted.
NAFAG said it will not issue an ultimatum to the President but remains hopeful he will exercise his discretion to take what it considers the appropriate decision.
“If government still goes ahead to do it then at least the fishing industry in Ghana knows that there’s no rule of law and therefore we also do what to bring body and soul together that one believe me and we have a lot of options but we don’t believe we are going to get there. We know the president will do due diligence,” NAFAG stated.
The Association has also questioned the roles of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) and the Minerals Commission in the licensing process, insisting the two regulatory bodies have explanations to provide for allowing the licence to be granted.
“Of course they are the regulatory bodies and already our fish in the ocean is detected with heavy metals as a result of mining upstream so if they are bringing mining in the ocean or in the sea it won’t work. For the CEO of minerals commission to issue a reconnaissance licence he must come and explain to the good people of Ghana. For EPA to also issue a stakeholder engagement on an illegality like this they should also come forward.”
The dispute raises concerns about how Ghana balances mineral exploration with the protection of marine resources that sustain fishing communities, provide food for millions and contribute to the national economy.
NAFAG is therefore urging the President to go beyond suspending the licence and cancel it entirely, while demanding accountability from the institutions responsible for regulating the sector.
By Samuel Yeboah Adams
