The Fisheries Ministry has declared a closed fishing season for 2025, with different durations for various vessel types.
According to the release, industrial trawlers will be closed for two months, from July 1, 2025, to August 31, 2025, while semi-industrial inshore vessels will be closed for one month, from July 1st to July 31st, 2025. Artisanal canoe fishers are exempted from the closed season but are still expected to adhere to other fishing regulations.
The Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Hon. Emelia Arthur, after the announcement, visited the Ahanta West Municipality, which is one of the fishing hubs in the Western Region.
Hon. Emelia Arthur toured eight fishing communities, reiterating the government’s commitment to supporting the fishing sector through progressive policies and interventions.
The Minister noted that the closed season aims to help replenish fish stocks and ensure the long-term sustainability of Ghana’s marine resources. She urged all fishers to comply with the regulations and respect them.
She hinted at a reform in the distribution of the premix fuel with MMDCEs, MPs, Assembly members and Chiefs tasked to review the previous allocations and ensure 53% of the premix proceeds benefit local communities directly. “This will encourage accountability”, she said.
To combat illegal fishing activities and protect critical spawning grounds, with regulated fishing practices, the Minister said the Ministry has introduced Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) for such purposes.
The MCE of Ahanta West Municipal Assembly, Engr Ebenezer Aidoo, presented some key challenges facing the fishing communities in the Ahanta West Municipality, stressing the need for greater attention to improve livelihoods.
The MCE also warned the fisher folks to refrain from using illegal fishing methods and substances.
He assured the Minister that, together with the MP, Mavis Kuukua Bissue-Boateng, they will ensure transparency in the premix fuel distribution and proper accounting of proceeds by the new premix committees.
The Minister and the MCE visited Egyambra, Miemia, Awona Beach, Princess, Aketayi, Cape 3 Point, Katakro, and Akwidaa which are all fishing communities.
Emmanuel Smart Amo
