By Mabel Adorkor Annang
Illegal diversion and hoarding of subsidized premix fuel have come under renewed scrutiny as the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture and the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies, COMAC move to safeguard the fuel subsidy scheme for Ghana’s fisherfolk.
The concerns were raised during a courtesy call by the Chamber’s Chief Executive, Dr. Riverson Oppong on the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Emelia Arthur.
The meeting focused on tackling the growing problem of diversion, hoarding, and illegal resale of subsidized premix fuel, which was introduced to make fuel affordable and accessible to small-scale fishers and canoe operators across coastal and riverside communities.
Dr. Oppong noted that the objective of the subsidy is being undermined by individuals who divert premix fuel from designated fishing communities and resell it at inflated prices for personal gain.
“The subsidy is intended to support fisherfolk, not profiteering. We must work together to ensure that the fuel reaches the people it was meant for and that those abusing the system are brought to book.” Dr. Oppong added.
Dr. Oppong called for stronger collaboration between the Chamber and the Ministry to strengthen accountability within the distribution system.
He further described the illegal diversion and hoarding of premix fuel as a serious law enforcement issue and urged authorities to take decisive action against offenders.
Responding to the concerns, Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Emelia Arthur reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to tackling illegal activities associated with premix fuel distribution.
She said “we are already working closely with the Premix Fuel Secretariat and other enforcement agencies to track and arrest offenders. We will continue to strengthen monitoring and enforcement to protect the integrity of the premix fuel programme.”
The Minister assured the Chamber of the continued support of the Fisheries Enforcement Unit in prosecuting offenders and pledged that measures would be strengthened to ensure subsidized premix fuel reaches the fisherfolk for whom it was intended.
She reiterated that government remains committed to preventing unlawful profiteering and ensuring that the subsidy benefits genuine fisherfolk across the country.
