The closed fishing season, announced by the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Mavis Hawa Koomson, began on July 1, 2024. The closure, intended to replenish fish stocks, has had significant impacts on local fishingcommunities.
Most Fishermen have expressed their frustrations with some stating some of the impacts of the closure on them. One mentioned that his children are unable to go to school due to lack of funds, an impact of the closed fishing season. He furtheremphasized that July and August are their harvest months, so it’s hard to understand why they would close the sea during this period . The relief items promised by the sector Minister are also distributed unfairly.
Similarly, another fisherman expressed his hardships, stating, that his family depends on him and it’s becoming difficult to provide for them.
A fishmonger also highlighted her struggles, stating that the closure has caused her immense frustration. She mentioned that Fish mongering is her only source of income to support my five children and With this closure, only two of her children can attend school while the other three stay home.
On the other hand, some fishmongers with preserved stock are able to continue their business and even profit during this period, the majority are facing severe economic hardships.
This information was gathered by Onua TV’s Akua Sarpomaa at‘Korleana.
Source: sankofaonline.com
