The Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Hawa Koomson has warned fishermen against illegal fishing practices, underscoring the government’s commitment to preserving the nation’s marine resources.

The Minister issued the warning at the beginning of the annual fishing closed season on Monday, 1 July 2024,

Addressing attendees at a ceremony in Dixcove in the Western Region to mark the start of the closed season, Ms. Koomson emphasised that those caught violating the ban will face severe legal consequences.

“It has come to my notice that some fisherfolks are planning to land their fish at the Togo border during the closed season. Be warned that they will be apprehended and charged if they pursue this illegal activity,” Ms. Koomson declared.

She continued that: “There shall be no more use of monofilament nets and any unauthorised fishing gear after the opening of the season.”

The closed season, which will last for one month, is a critical measure aimed at replenishing Ghana’s marine fisheries resources and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the fishing industry.

Ms.Koomson reaffirmed the government’s determination to enforce the ban and protect the fisheries sector.

The Western Regional Minister Kwabena Okyere Darko Mensah praised the selection of Dixcove for the closed season ceremony, noting the area’s significant contribution to Ghana’s tuna industry, which supplies over 90 per cent of the nation’s tuna.

“The importance of Dixcove in our tuna production makes it the ideal location for marking the beginning of the closed season,” the Regional Minister said.

Stephen Adjo Katcher, President of the Ghana Industrial Trawlers Association, expressed support for the closed season but raised concerns about the challenges facing the fishing community, including the high costs of spare parts and fuel.

“We welcome the closed season as a positive step for our fisheries, but we also need to address the high costs of maintaining our equipment and the rising fuel prices,” Mr.Katcher said.