By: Sarah Baafi
The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture has expressed deep concern over recent pirate attacks targeting Ghanaian fishermen, while confirming the safe rescue of all seventy-one (71) fishermen who were held at sea.
In a statement, the Ministry commended the Ghana Armed Forces, the Ghana Navy, and the Office of the President for their swift, coordinated, and professional response that ensured the fishermen’s safe return.
The Ministry also acknowledged the role of Hon. Gizella Tetteh-Agbotui, Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya West, whose engagement with affected fishing communities and state institutions contributed significantly to the successful rescue operation.
The government reiterated its commitment to protecting Ghanaian fishermen and securing the country’s territorial waters. The recently enacted Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, 2025 (Act 1146) provides stronger enforcement, monitoring, and safety mechanisms across the fisheries sector.
Under these reforms, the Ministry is rolling out additional measures to improve maritime safety, including:
Enhanced registration and licensing of fishing canoes
Introduction of GPS tracking and long-range communication systems for artisanal vessels
Implementation of insurance and pension schemes for fishermen
Expansion of naval patrol capacity for better surveillance, deterrence, and rapid response
The Ministry has urged fishing communities to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities promptly. It emphasized that fisheries remain a vital pillar of food security, employment, and coastal stability, assuring that government will continue to act decisively to keep Ghana’s seas safe and secure.
