Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Emelia Arthur, has concluded a three-day working tour of the proposed Marine Protected Area (MPA) zone in the Western Region, marking a significant step towards establishing Ghana’s first MPA.
The tour, which covered over 20 coastal communities, aimed to gather views from fisherfolk, clarify intentions, and secure local support for the MPA initiative.
Key highlights of the tour:
- Community engagements: The Fisheries Minister engaged with fisherfolk and local leaders in communities such as Egyambra, Miemia, Awona Beach, and Akwidaa, to promote the MPA initiative and address concerns.
- Support for MPA: The communities warmly welcomed the team and expressed strong support for the Marine Protected Area, appreciating the exclusion from this year’s closed season.
- New Legislative Instrument: The ministry is working on a new Legislative Instrument to create a fairer spatial distribution at sea, allowing artisanal fishers to operate farther offshore while pushing industrial vessels further out, reducing conflict and promoting sustainable fishing.
Objectives of the Marine Protected Area:
- Conservation: Protect critical habitats and give marine life space to regenerate, benefiting fishers, coastal communities, and the national economy.
- Sustainable Fishing: Enhance fish stock recovery, promote biodiversity, and secure livelihoods for future generations of fishers.
- Community-Led: Engage local communities in conservation efforts and support grassroots participation .
The establishment of the Cape Three Points MPA marks a significant step in Ghana’s marine conservation efforts, aligning with the country’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 14.
The official declaration is expected soon, following strong community support for the initiative.
Local NGO, Hen Mpoano, which has served as a backbone in community engagement around the MPA, continues to play a key role in facilitating dialogue and supporting grassroots participation in the process.
2025 Closed Fishing Season starts July 1 – Fisheries Ministry
By Shirley Ewurama Smith|ConnectFM|Takoradi
