National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer John Dramani Mahama has announced that, if elected, his administration will exempt canoe and artisanal fishermen from the annual closed season program.
This policy, implemented to protect fish stocks and allow populations to recover, would be reserved solely for large trawlers and industrial vessels.
The closed season policy was introduced to combat overfishing, replenish fish populations, and provide a breeding period for fish stocks.
However, John Mahama argues that the traditional fishing practices of canoe and artisanal fishermen are not the cause of Ghana’s declining fish stocks.
Speaking at Winneba in the Effutu Constituency as part of his Central Regional tour, Mr. Mahama emphasized his belief that this approach would offer much-needed relief and protect the livelihoods of local fishermen.
He also pledged to restructure the Landing Beach Committees (LBCs) to ensure fairer and more efficient distribution of essential resources, including premix fuel, nets, and outboard motors.
He promised that the reorganized LBCs would include representatives from various sectors of the fishing industry, rather than political appointees or intermediaries who exploit the system by reselling subsidized goods at higher prices.
“We must keep politics out of the fishing industry,” he said, stressing the need for a transparent system that prioritizes the well-being of fishing communities.
These commitments are part of Mahama’s broader strategy to support Ghana’s fishing communities and improve the livelihoods of those reliant on traditional fishing.
Story by: Emmanuel Romeo Tetteh (#RomeoWrites✍️) / Ahotoronline.com | Ghana 🇬🇭
