Ghana has taken a significant step towards harnessing its ocean and aquatic resources with the launch of the National Blue Economy Strategy.

The strategy, approved by the Cabinet, aims to transform the country's economy and improve the livelihoods of its people.

Speaking at the launch, Mr Emelia Arthur (MP), Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, commended the committee that worked on the strategy, led by Professor Georgina Oduro, for their dedication and hard work.

The government has also announced plans to set up a Blue Economy Commission, which will be under the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture, with an inter-ministerial team overseeing its work.

The next three days will focus on building the implementation plan, including priority activities, costs, and a minimum architecture platform for the Blue Economy Commission.

The government is working to fast-track the implementation of the strategy, with a small budget allocated for the Commission.

The Blue Economy Strategy is guided by six pillars: blue wealth, blue health, blue knowledge, blue finance, blue equity, and blue safety.

The government is calling on stakeholders to think differently and work together to achieve the strategy's goals, moving away from isolated sectors to an integrated national blue economy implementation team.

The launch marks a significant transition from planning to implementation, and the government is optimistic about the potential of the Blue Economy to drive Ghana's development. International partners, including AU-IBAR, have pledged their support for the initiative.