Ghanaian Fisheries Reform: President Signs Landmark Aquaculture bill
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Cape Coast, Ghana – August 22, 2025 – In a decisive move for marine conservation and food security, the President of Ghana has formally approved the Fisheries and Aquaculture Bill, without amendments.This action signals a strong commitment to safeguarding the livelihoods of over 200,000 small-scale fishers and the millions of Ghanaians who rely on fish as a crucial food source and economic driver.
A Turning Point for Ghana’s Coastal Communities
The newly enacted legislation introduces sweeping changes to fisheries management, most notably expanding Ghana’s inshore Exclusive Zone (IEZ) from six to twelve nautical miles. this expanded zone is specifically designated for artisanal fishers, providing a critical buffer against the encroachment of larger industrial trawlers. These trawlers have historically been implicated in illegal fishing practices,collisions with smaller vessels,damage to fishing gear,and the overall depletion of fish stocks.
Hon. Emelia Arthur, the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, played a pivotal role in championing this legislation. Her dedication to equitable and sustainable fisheries management was instrumental in securing a law that prioritizes the well-being of Ghana’s coastal communities.
Did You no? Ghana’s coastline stretches approximately 360 miles (580 kilometers) along the gulf of Guinea, supporting a important portion of the nation’s population and economy.
Addressing Illegal fishing and EU Trade Concerns
The Fisheries and Aquaculture Bill is also expected to facilitate the lifting of a ‘yellow card’ trade warning issued by the European Union. This warning was prompted by concerns over illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing activities within Ghanaian waters. By strengthening measures to combat IUU fishing and enhancing clarity in the fisheries sector, the Bill equips regulators and enforcement agencies with the tools necessary to effectively address unlawful practices. This aligns with international efforts to promote sustainable fisheries, as outlined in the Food and agriculture Association’s (FAO) Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries [[1]].
Steve Trent, CEO and Founder of the Environmental Justice Foundation (EJF), lauded the President’s decision, stating: “This new law marks a turning point for Ghana’s fisheries and coastal communities. The president’s assent to the Fisheries and Aquaculture Bill sends a clear signal of leadership, vision, and commitment to the millions of peopel who rely on a healthy ocean. By supporting small-scale fishers, safeguarding food security, and tackling illegal industrial fishing head-on, Ghana has set a course for a sustainable and equitable future.”
Key Provisions of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Bill
| provision | Details |
|---|---|
| Inshore Exclusive zone (IEZ) Expansion | Increased from 6 to 12 nautical miles, reserved for artisanal fishers. |
| IUU Fishing Measures | Strengthened regulations and enforcement to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. |
| Fisheries Transparency | Enhanced reporting and monitoring requirements for all fishing vessels. |
| Aquaculture Growth | Provisions to promote sustainable aquaculture practices. |
the passage of this Bill comes at a critical juncture. Over 90 percent of artisanal fishers in Ghana report declining catches, and populations of key small pelagic species, such as sardinella, have experienced near-total collapse in recent years. Without immediate and decisive action, Ghana risks losing a vital food source and a cornerstone of its cultural heritage.
Pro Tip: Supporting sustainable seafood choices can contribute to the long-term health of Ghana’s fisheries and the livelihoods of its fishing communities.
Implementation is Key
While the enactment of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Bill represents a significant victory, the Environmental Justice Foundation emphasizes that effective implementation is paramount. Laws alone cannot guarantee change; consistent and robust enforcement is essential. This requires effective monitoring systems, obvious governance structures, and stringent penalties for those who violate the regulations. Effective fisheries management also relies on robust scientific data and adaptive management strategies, as highlighted by the United Nations Sustainable development Goal 14 [[2]].
What steps will Ghana take to ensure the full and effective implementation of this landmark legislation? And how will the benefits of these reforms be equitably distributed among all stakeholders in the fisheries sector?
Looking Ahead: The Future of Ghanaian Fisheries
Ghana’s fisheries face ongoing challenges, including climate change, pollution, and the impacts of globalization. The success of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Bill will depend on continued investment in research, monitoring, and enforcement, as well as collaboration between government, industry, and local communities. The long-term sustainability of Ghana’s marine resources is crucial for the nation’s economic prosperity and food security.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the primary goal of the fisheries and Aquaculture Bill? To protect Ghana’s fisheries resources, support small-scale fishers, and ensure food security.
- What is the Inshore Exclusive Zone (IEZ)? An area of the ocean reserved for artisanal fishers, now expanded to 12 nautical miles.
- How will this Bill impact industrial fishing vessels? They will be restricted from operating within the expanded IEZ and subject to stricter regulations.
- What is IUU fishing? Illegal,unreported,and unregulated fishing activities that threaten marine ecosystems.
- will this Bill help Ghana avoid EU trade sanctions? Yes, by demonstrating a commitment to combating IUU fishing and improving fisheries management.
We invite you to share this critically important news with your network and join the conversation about sustainable fisheries management. Your voice matters!