The Chief Fishermen and Queen Fishmongers Council of Ghana has formally requested recognition and support from the government and traditional authorities for inland fishing communities and their leadership structures as vital partners in the development of the fisheries sector.
In his welcome address during a meeting with government representatives and stakeholders at Kete-Krachi in the Oti Region, Mr. Daniel Akpaglo Nyamekor, the National Vice President of the Council, emphasized the historical and economic contributions made by fishing communities following the establishment of the Akosombo Dam. He noted that the Volta Lake has generated significant employment opportunities for small-scale fishers, prompting migration from southern Ghana to lakeside communities in the northern area of the lake.
Mr. Nyamekor explained that many migrant fishers have permanently settled along the lake, integrating fishing with farming activities to sustain their livelihoods. He stated that several settlements, initially small fishing camps, have expanded into large communities equipped with schools, markets, and other social amenities. However, he pointed out that many of these communities and their leaders have yet to receive full recognition from the state and some traditional authorities as key stakeholders in national development.
The Council highlighted the establishment of Chief Fishermen in various fishing communities to resolve disputes, maintain peace, and mediate between fisherfolk and indigenous communities. It thus appealed to the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development (MoFAD) and the government to empower Chief Fishermen and their councils to effectively regulate and protect the fisheries industry.
The Council also underscored the importance of traditional regulations in environmental conservation, noting that sustainability and responsible resource management were historically central to fisheries traditions. It expressed concern over the limited authority of local leaders to enforce responsible fishing practices and called for enhanced collaboration with government institutions.
Regarding social development, the Council appealed to the government, through District Assemblies, to offer scholarships to students from fishing communities for training as teachers and nurses. The Council argued that such initiatives would improve access to quality education and healthcare services in lakeside communities.
Addressing governance within the fisheries sector, the Council referenced the President’s campaign promise concerning the role of Chief Fishermen as chairpersons of Landing Beach Committees (LBCs). It urged the government to implement this structure to enhance accountability in premix fuel distribution and improve management within the sector.
Furthermore, the Council announced the establishment of a nine-member executive committee, led by the Chief Fisherman, to coordinate welfare and development initiatives for fisherfolk. It also called on stakeholders to intensify education on fisheries policies and the sustainable use of the Volta Lake ecosystem.
The Council urged the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development and the government to culminate this year’s International Fisheries Conference celebrations at Kete-Krachi in the Oti Region.
Stakeholders attending the engagement commended the address and expressed optimism that ongoing dialogue with community leaders would bolster inclusivity and sustainable development in Ghana’s fisheries sector.
During the event, Nana Kwadwo Yemowe II, Chief of Kantankofore, encouraged stakeholders in Ghana’s fisheries sector to strengthen collaboration and promote responsible livelihoods for current and future generations.
Delivering a solidarity message on behalf of Nana Mprah Besemuna II, paramount chief of Kete-Krachi and the people of Kantankofore, at a meeting of the Chief Fishermen and Queen Fishmongers Council – Inland Ghana in Krachi West, Nana Yemowe II praised the Council for establishing a platform for dialogue, reflection, and coordinated action to address pressing challenges facing the fisheries sector.
He acknowledged the crucial role played by fishermen and queen fishmongers in sustaining household incomes, enhancing national food security, and preserving the cultural and economic heritage of fishing communities nationwide.
While lauding government and sector stakeholders for ongoing reforms, the chief expressed concern over practices that threaten the sustainability of water bodies and public health. He cited the indiscriminate disposal of waste into rivers and lakes, the use of chemicals and other unapproved fishing methods, as well as unsafe fish preservation and smoking practices that compromise fish quality and reduce consumer confidence.
He highlighted the issue of child labor in some fishing communities and urged parents, fishermen, and fishmongers to balance skills transfer with formal education, stressing that quality education is essential in breaking cycles of vulnerability and preparing children for future leadership roles within the sector.
Nana Yemowe II encouraged traditional leaders, government agencies, and fisheries associations to foster constructive partnerships based on mutual respect in addressing critical issues such as premix fuel distribution, declining fish stocks, and community welfare.
By Kingsley Mamore, GNA
