Fisheries Commission Unveils Ghana's Transformative National Aquaculture Plan

The Fisheries Commission of Ghana, under the auspices of the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, has introduced the Ghana National Aquaculture Development Plan (GNADP), a significant initiative to transform its aquaculture industry. This strategic effort addresses food security, employment creation, and growth in exports while positioning the nation as an aquaculture leader in Africa.

On December 3, 2024, the Fisheries Commission of Ghana unveiled the GNADP at the Ange Hill Hotel in Accra. Developed in collaboration with the Norwegian Fish for Development Project, the Aquaculture Advisory Group, and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Regional Office for Africa, the four – year plan builds on the Ghana Aquaculture Strategic Framework and provides a roadmap for a sustainable and thriving aquaculture industry, aligning bio-physical requirements with socio-economic priorities.

The GNADP focuses on strategic investments that integrates specific aquaculture systems with the necessary environmental and economic conditions. It emphasizes on private sector leadership in driving industry growth, with the government playing a supportive role as a facilitator, monitor, and regulator to create an enabling business environment.

The Director of Inland Fisheries and Aquaculture at the Commission, Dr. Lawrence Armah Ahiah, highlighted the collaborative nature of the plan. “Every activity in this document was meticulously discussed with all stakeholders in mind” he said, underscoring the inclusivity and thoroughness of the process.

Key stakeholders present praised the plan’s comprehensive approach and the Commission’s thoroughness in formulating the plan. The Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber of Aquaculture, Mr. Jacob Adzikah, commended the Fisheries Commission for its vision and pledged the chamber’s full support for its implementation. “We will work closely with the Fisheries Commission to bring this document to life and ensure it does not remain a book on the shelf. This plan will position Ghana as an aquaculture hub in West Africa,” he expressed in support of the plan.

The GNADP represents a transformative step for Ghana, unlocking the immense potential of its aquaculture sector. It serves as a call to action for both public and private entities to collaborate in making the industry a cornerstone of the nation’s economy.

This landmark initiative signifies a new era for aquaculture in Ghana, with the Fisheries Commission and its partners leading the charge toward a sustainable and prosperous future.