The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Representative in Ghana, Mr. Meshack Oguna Malo, pays a courtesy visit to the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Hon. Emelia Arthur, as the two sides explore opportunities to strengthen collaboration and advance the sustainable development of Ghana’s fisheries sector.

The meeting, which takes place at the Minister’s Conference Room, provides an opportunity for Mr. Malo to formally introduce himself to the Minister and discuss areas of mutual interest between FAO and the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture.

Discussions focus on key issues including fisheries governance, sustainability, financing, data management, fisheries documentation and support for organised fishing communities.

The engagement also highlights the importance of coordinated efforts among government institutions, development partners and other stakeholders in addressing challenges affecting the fisheries sector.

During the meeting, Mr. Malo reaffirms FAO’s commitment to supporting Ghana in its efforts to build a sustainable, resilient and productive fisheries sector.

He emphasises the need for stronger cooperation in fisheries management, particularly in improving fisheries documentation and data systems. Reliable and timely fisheries data remain important for effective planning, policymaking and decision-making within the sector.

Mr. Malo also highlights the importance of mobilising adequate financing to support fisheries development initiatives and strengthening the implementation of relevant laws and policies.

‘’The collaboration between FAO and the Ministry can contribute to improving fisheries governance while supporting fishing communities whose livelihoods depend heavily on the sector.’’
UN FAO Repsentative, Meshack Oguna Malo

The engagement therefore provides a platform for both institutions to identify areas where technical support, resources and institutional cooperation can contribute to addressing some of the longstanding challenges confronting Ghana’s fisheries industry.

In response, the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Hon. Emelia Arthur, outlines the Ministry’s four-year plan aimed at establishing a more sustainable and resilient fisheries sector.

The plan places emphasis on three major areas of development: marine fisheries, inland fisheries and aquaculture.

‘’The Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing is one of the major challenges requiring sustained attention. The Ministry is therefore prioritising measures aimed at tackling IUU fishing and promoting compliance with fisheries laws and regulations.’’
Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Hon. Emelia Arthur

The Officials of the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture together with the Delegation of the UN FAO Representative and Team after the Meeting

The Officials of the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture together with the Representative of the United Nations FAO

Hon. Arthur also highlights efforts to reduce post harvest losses, which continue to affect the value and profitability of fisheries products. Improving post-harvest handling, preservation and processing is expected to help reduce waste while increasing the economic value of fish products.

Focus on Fisheries Data and Canoe Registration

Another key priority outlined by the Minister is the improvement of canoe registration and licensing.

The Ministry is working to strengthen the registration and licensing processes within the artisanal fisheries sector as part of broader efforts to improve regulation, accountability and fisheries management.

”Data Collection and Management also Remain Central to the Ministry’s Agenda,” Hon. Arthur stresses the need for stronger fisheries data systems to support evidence-based decision-making and provide a clearer understanding of developments within the sector.

An improved data collection is expected to assist policymakers and stakeholders in monitoring fisheries resources, assessing trends and designing interventions that respond effectively to the needs of fishing communities.

The meeting underscores the importance of continued collaboration between the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture and FAO in addressing the complex challenges facing Ghana’s fisheries sector.

Hon. Arthur expresses the Ministry’s commitment to deepening its partnership with FAO and other development partners and stakeholders to advance sustainable fisheries management.

She notes that stronger partnerships are important to implementing policies and programmes that not only protect Ghana’s fisheries resources but also improve the livelihoods of fisher folk and other fisheries-dependent communities.

The collaboration also provides an opportunity to strengthen institutional capacity, improve access to technical and financial support, and promote sustainable approaches to fisheries development.

Building a Sustainable Fisheries Future

Hon. Arthur expresses the Ministry’s commitment to deepening its collaboration with FAO and other stakeholders. She notes that stronger partnerships are necessary to advance sustainable fisheries management, strengthen the sector’s contribution to national development and improve the livelihoods of fisher folk and fisheries dependent communities.

The engagement between the FAO Representative and the Fisheries Minister signals a shared commitment to addressing the complex challenges facing Ghana’s fisheries sector through stronger cooperation and coordinated action.

As the Ministry implements its four years plan, continued collaboration with development partners such as FAO provides an avenue for strengthening institutional capacity, improving fisheries governance and supporting interventions that balance resource sustainability with the economic and social needs of fishing communities.

The meeting ultimately reinforces the importance of sustained collaboration, reliable data, effective regulation and strategic investment in building a fisheries sector that remains productive, resilient and capable of supporting present and future generations.