New Fisheries Commission Board Inaugurated to Help Sector Transformation
The Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Madam Emelia Arthur, has inaugurated a 10-member board for the Fisheries Commission, charged with steering the sector toward sustainability, innovation, and economic growth over the next four years.
Addressing the media during the ceremony on Monday, she announced a newly crafted vision statement for the sector, developed after extensive deliberations as sustainable, well-governed, resilient fisheries and aquaculture sector driven by equity, innovation, and strategic investment, delivering food security, decent jobs, economic growth, and environmental stewardship, while contributing to the national blue economy agenda.
She congratulated the newly appointed members, emphasizing that their selection was based on competence, integrity, and a demonstrated commitment to national service.
“Your organization must have great faith in you to present you for this crucial role. This is not just an administrative appointment, it is a national calling,” she said.
Madam Arthur stressed that the sector has only begun tapping into its vast potential.
“We have been scratching the tip of the iceberg. It is time to delve deeper so that fisheries and aquaculture can significantly contribute to Ghana’s development,” she noted.
Highlighting the importance of the blue economy, the Minister noted that the fisheries sector will play a pivotal role in unlocking its full potential.
She, however, cautioned that achieving this vision requires more than routine governance.
“It demands bold decision-making, data-driven strategies, and a strong commitment to environmental and social responsibility,” she added.
To ensure progress, she directed the board to submit quarterly reports detailing achievements, challenges, and proposed solutions.
Madam Arthur reminded the board members of the recently issued Code of Conduct for Public Service by the President of Ghana and urged them to uphold the highest standards of transparency, patriotism, and discipline in their leadership.
“Let this board set a benchmark for others. Together, we must build a sector that is sustainable, inclusive, and globally competitive,” she added.
The newly inaugurated board members have been tasked with driving policy implementation, combating illegal fishing, promoting aquaculture development, and ensuring the sector’s alignment with Ghana’s broader economic goals.
The board members include;Prof. Wisdom Akpalu as Chairperson, GIMPA, Prof. Benjamin Betey Campion – Executive Director, Fisheries Commission, Commodore Bright E.K. Atiayao – Ministry of Defence, Mr. Prosper Kwame Amewode – Ministry of Transport, Mr. Cephas Adjei Mensah – Ministry of Environment, Science & Technology, Dr. Ruby Asmah – Water Research Institute, Ing. Eric Damuel Adu-Dankwa – Ghana Irrigation Development Authority, Nana Jojo Solomon – National Fisheries Association of Ghana (NAFAG), Mr. Frank Kwesi Aihoon – Ghana Tuna Association (GTA) and Nana Kweigyah Isaac – Canoe and Gear Owners Association.
What do you think about this story? Please leave a comment in the comment section
For event coverage, news publication, advertisement and general inquiry, please call 0208557965
END