Ghana’s Ministry of Fisheries Cracks Down on Illegal Fishing Nets
In a decisive move to protect marine biodiversity, Ghana’s Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture has issued a warning to fishermen using unauthorized fishing nets targeting juvenile fish. Those found violating these regulations can expect legal repercussions.
During a presentation in Accra on the recent fishing gear audit report, Chief Director Dr. Mariam W.A. Kpakpa highlighted that certain fishing communities continue to flout the law. Some are using mesh sizes as tiny as 5mm, significantly below the required minimum of 25mm. This practice endangers young fish species and threatens the sustainability of Ghana’s fisheries.
The audit, carried out by the Centre for Maritime Law and Security Africa in partnership with the Fisheries Commission, revealed a troubling trend. The use of unapproved nets, such as purse seines, gill nets, entangling nets, trawls, beach seines, and poli-sieve nets, is rising, further complicating existing conservation efforts.
Dr. Kpakpa acknowledged that implementing necessary reforms within the fisheries sector can be a gradual process. However, she emphasized that the findings of this report compel the Ministry to take firm actions against non-compliance. The call for regulatory enforcement is both urgent and unavoidable.
“Reform is a long journey, but this report underscores the pressing need for action,” Dr. Kpakpa noted, stressing the importance of improving regulation in the fishing community.
Acknowledging the pitfalls of strict enforcement without adequate education, Mr. Mike Abakah-Edu, a representative of the Ghana National Canoe Fishermen Council, emphasized the need for awareness campaigns. He cautioned against punitive measures that may alienate fishermen who may not fully understand the legal implications of their practices.
“It is essential to educate fishermen about the illegality of these practices before enforcing the law,” he said, appealing for time to educate the community before any task forces are deployed.
In a further discussion, Dr. Eric Cobbinah, Deputy Executive Director of the Fisheries Commission, shared insights on the alarming prevalence of monofilament nets, despite a ban on their use in marine settings. These nets, primarily used for gill and entangling purposes, dominate Ghana’s artisanal fisheries, comprising approximately 5,749 units.
“The excessive use of monofilament nets, particularly under poor conditions, raises severe concerns. This type of gear has a much higher catch rate than multifilament nets, leading to potential overfishing and non-compliance with regulations,” Dr. Cobbinah explained.
The field study aimed to assess different types of fishing gear, including static gears like entangling and trammel nets, encircling gears such as purse seine nets, and dragged gears like trawl nets and beach seines. It also focused on documenting gear modifications, and social data were collected via questionnaires to better understand local perceptions and compliance challenges.
The implications of illegal fishing extend beyond the immediate community. Unsustainable practices jeopardize food security and the livelihoods of many families relying on fishing as their primary source of income. The Ministry’s efforts to curb these activities are crucial not only for preserving marine ecosystems but also for the future of artisanal and inshore fisheries across Ghana.
As the Ministry prepares to implement stricter regulations, community leaders urge ongoing dialogue and education. The goal is to foster an environment where fishermen can thrive while respecting the laws designed to protect their vital natural resources.
The urgency for action is clear. With the health of Ghana’s marine resources hanging in the balance, both regulators and fishing communities must work collaboratively to ensure a more sustainable future for the nation’s fisheries.
— Reported by Nexio News
