By Felix Cofie
President John Dramani Mahama has signed into law the Fisheries and Aquaculture Bill, 2025, in what government describes as a landmark step toward securing Ghana’s fisheries sector and strengthening livelihoods.
The new legislation, officially titled the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, 2025 (Act 1146), introduces sweeping reforms to ensure sustainability, compliance with international standards, and better protection for the country’s fishing communities.
Passed by Parliament in July 2025, the Act is expected to transform Ghana’s fisheries sector into a sustainable and economically viable industry while safeguarding an estimated $425 million in annual seafood exports.
Key Highlights of Act 1146
• Independent Fisheries Commission: Establishes a fully autonomous body to manage and conserve fisheries and aquaculture resources.
• Stronger Legal Framework: Aligns Ghana’s fisheries management with international best practices, boosting credibility in global markets.
• Enforcement and Penalties: Introduces tougher sanctions against illegal fishing to restore depleted fish stocks and protect marine biodiversity.
• Protection of Fisherfolk: Sets new standards for the safety, security, and welfare of crew and fishing workers.
• Expansion of the Inshore Exclusive Zone (IEZ): Extends the zone from 6 to 12 nautical miles to protect breeding grounds, improve catches, and sustain the livelihoods of over 2.7 million artisanal fishers.According to the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, the law represents “a transformative milestone that secures Ghana’s fisheries resources, safeguards livelihoods, and positions the sector for long-term growth.”
