Hon. Emelia Arthur, Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, has explained to Parliament the rationale behind the 2025 closed season exemption for marine artisanal fishers.

Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Hon. Emelia Arthur explaining in Parliament

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Responding to a question posed by Hon. Duke Ofori-Atta (Fanteakwa South), the Minister emphasized that artisanal fisheries play a vital role in rural coastal livelihoods and national food security, contributing 60% of the country’s protein needs.

She noted that the exemption is in line with current government policy to balance conservation with the economic and social needs of rural fishing communities. However, she clarified that this exemption does not absolve artisanal fishers from their responsibility to adhere to traditional and statutory conservation practices, including the observance of fishing holidays and compliance with anti-IUU fishing regulations.

The Minister also highlighted that the government is exploring alternative conservation measures such as the establishment of Ghana’s first Marine Protected Area (MPA) at Greater Cape Three Points. This initiative aims to protect marine biodiversity, enhance spawning, and build climate resilience through co-management structures, gear restrictions, and improved monitoring and enforcement.

In addition, Hon. Emelia Arthur reaffirmed the government’s commitment to integrating science with indigenous knowledge systems to support sustainable fisheries management and promote community-led stewardship of marine resources.