The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development (MoFAD) and the Fisheries Commission have announced the 2026 closed fishing season to restore declining stocks.
Under the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act 2025, industrial trawlers must cease operations from 1 July to 31 August, while semi-industrial vessels are restricted from 1 July to 31 July.
To protect coastal livelihoods, artisanal canoe fishers remain exempt from this closure, provided they adhere to existing regulations and designated fishing holidays.
The Ministry warned that enforcement will be intensified to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, such as the use of chemicals or explosives.
To ensure compliance, the Fisheries Enforcement Unit will conduct nationwide surveillance, with violators facing strict legal sanctions.
Beyond the closure, the government plans to establish Marine Protected Areas, starting at Greater Cape Three Points. Authorities are now urging sector stakeholders and traditional leaders to support these measures to guarantee the long-term sustainability of Ghana’s marine resources.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
