In a strategic move to revitalize Ghana’s fisheries industry, the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Emelia Arthur, recently met with a Fisheries Economist expert, Professor Rashid Sumaila of the University of British Columbia, Canada.
The meeting centered on forward-thinking approaches to reshape the sector, with Professor Sumaila highlighting the value of innovation and the need to tap into global networks of expertise. He praised Hon. Arthur’s leadership and her commitment to positioning Ghana’s fisheries on the international map.
Arthur welcomed the Professor’s insights and expressed interest in leveraging his global connections to attract funding from leading international organizations dedicated to sustainable fisheries. She also underscored the importance of strengthening research frameworks and adopting data-driven strategies to inform policy and operational decisions within the Ministry.
This collaboration marks a promising step toward a more resilient, research-backed, and globally integrated fisheries sector in Ghana.
The discussions between Minister Arthur and Professor Sumaila went beyond a mere exchange of pleasantries; they laid the groundwork for a comprehensive overhaul of Ghana’s fisheries policy. Professor Sumaila, known for his work on the economic impacts of marine ecosystems, presented a compelling case for a paradigm shift from traditional, often reactive, management to a proactive, data-driven approach.
He shared examples from other nations that have successfully integrated technology and scientific research to monitor fish stocks, combat illegal fishing, and enhance the livelihoods of small-scale fishers.
Minister Arthur, in turn, detailed her vision for a “Blue Economy” that not only focuses on resource extraction but also on the long-term sustainability of marine ecosystems. She emphasized the need for partnerships with academic institutions, both locally and internationally, to build the capacity of local researchers and policy analysts.
Her goal is to create a new generation of fisheries professionals who are equipped with the skills to use scientific data to make informed decisions.
The Minister also outlined her plan to establish a Fisheries Innovation Fund.
This fund, she explained, would be a public-private partnership designed to attract investment in sustainable aquaculture, post-harvest processing, and the development of new market channels.
Professor Sumaila expressed his enthusiasm for this initiative, promising to connect Minister Arthur with key stakeholders, including representatives from the World Bank, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and various philanthropic foundations.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from both parties to formalize their collaboration. Professor Sumaila agreed to serve as a strategic advisor, helping the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture to develop a five-year strategic plan that will be presented to Parliament.
This partnership is a clear signal that Ghana is serious about protecting its marine resources and ensuring that the fisheries sector remains a cornerstone of the nation’s economy for generations to come.
By Bawa Musah
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