PRESS STATEMENT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DATE: JUNE 4, 2025
TO: ALL MEDIA HOUSES
MEASURES TAKEN TO ADDRESS FISH DISEASE OUTBREAK KAMBUNGLI, ELLEMBELLE DISTRICT
The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture (MoFA) wishes to inform the public about a recent fish disease outbreak and ongoing steps being taken by the government to safeguard aquatic health, protect biodiversity and preserve the livelihoods of fisherfolks.
On January 12, 2025, the Fish Health Unit (FHU) of the Fisheries Commission was alerted to an unusual fish mortality event in Kambungli, Ellembelle District, located in the Western Region. Further investigations confirmed the outbreak of Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome (EUS), a severe transboundary disease recognized by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH). The disease, caused by the pathogen Aphanomyces invadans sp., manifests skin ulcers and lesions and has impacted several wild freshwater species, including catfish and snakehead.
Upon receiving the report, a multidisciplinary team, including experts from the Fish Health Unit of the Fisheries Commission, the Water Research Institute (WRI), Accra Veterinary Laboratory, Emed Diagnostic Services, the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and the West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), conducted further tests. Histopathological and PCR testing methods confirmed the presence of the disease, with 80% of tested samples returning positive results.
To mitigate the spread of the disease, a temporary fishing ban has been imposed on the Ebi, Amanzule and Fia rivers in the Ellembelle District. The Ministry is working closely with district authorities and relevant agencies to enforce strict regulations on the movement of live fish from affected areas. Infected fish must be safely disposed of, preferably by burning or incinerating. The Ministry encourages the public to report on any appearance and/or behaviour of fish promptly.
The Ministry further urges the public to remain vigilant and support these measures. The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture remains fully committed to the protection of aquatic life, the sustainability of the fisheries sector and the food security of all Ghanaians.
For further clarification contact the Ag. Executive Director of the Fisheries Commission, Prof. Benjamin Campion on 024-777-6666 and email beniamin.campion@fishcom.gov.gh
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source:www.senaradioonline.com/The Exposé
