By Rachel Quartey and Rukayatu Musah.
The Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Madam Emelia Arthur, has announced plans to establish the Blue Economy Commission, a new agency aimed at strengthening sustainable fisheries management and creating new economic opportunities.
The announcement was made during a working visit by Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang to the Ministry.”Our ministry currently has two agencies, the Fisheries Commission and the National Fisheries Secretariat. Following a recent Cabinet decision, we are set to establish a third, the Blue Economy Commission ‘she said.
Madam Arthur noted the urgent threat posed by the rapid depletion of fish stocks, warning that it has serious implications for food security, public health, and national security.
”This is a matter of national food security and health. We will focus significantly on aquaculture and work closely with the Twenty-Four Hour Economy Secretariat under the Volta Economic Corridor agenda to achieve this.”
Vice President Prof. Opoku-Agyemang commended the resilience and knowledge of fishermen and farmers, highlighting their critical role in Ghana’s economy and food security.
She said: “There is wealth in our waters, and we must ensure it benefits the fishermen and communities who rely on it. These workers are skilled and self-taught, often spending days at sea, and they deserve opportunities to contribute fully to the economy. Supporting them, improving their quality of life, and showing respect costs nothing. The same applies to our farmers.”
The Vice President further called for increased investment in infrastructure and resources, urging the creation of stronger platforms to amplify the voices of fishermen and farmers in policymaking. She added:
“I hear you on offices and accommodation for staff, and I am happy to support that.
But I am equally committed to raising the quality of life for the people who live and work there. Fishermen are remarkable, they know how to read the skies and take care of themselves.
They don’t ask for the moon, only the opportunity to contribute to the economy. It is our responsibility to support them and show them the respect they deserve.”
The visit marks the final ministerial engagement by the Vice President for 2025, with plans to continue familiarisation visits to ministries led by first-time ministers in 2026
