On 13th August 2024, the Ghana’s Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development presented four tanks and 250 bags of Ranan fish feed to the Department of Marine and Fisheries Science at the University of Ghana.
This donation, made by Professor Francis E.K. Nunoo, Board Chairman of the Fisheries Commission, on behalf of Hon. Mavis Hawa Koomson, the sector Minister, is a key part of the “Aquaculture for Food and Jobs” programme.
In his remarks, Prof. Nunoo emphasized the urgent need for aquaculture in the face of declining fisheries resources, which are under threat from illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing practices, pollution, climate change, and habitat destruction.
These challenges have led to the overexploitation of fisheries, a significant reduction in fish stocks, and declining fish production.
The Ministry is committed to addressing these challenges by boosting domestic fish production through the “Aquaculture for Food and Jobs” programme.
This initiative is designed to bridge the gap between fish demand and supply, reduce reliance on fish imports, and create viable employment opportunities for youth and women across the country.
Mr. David Aidoo, the program coordinator, highlighted that the initiative, in partnership with R&B Farms, will provide training and resources to 10,000 beneficiaries, equipping them with the skills and tools needed to establish and sustain successful aquaculture businesses.
The programme covers essential topics such as fish farming, water quality management, feed management, and marketing.
At the end of their training, beneficiaries will receive a startup package and ongoing support, including monthly fish feed supplies and regular monitoring, to ensure their success.
This initiative is expected to produce 20,000 MT of fish annually, create over 60,000 direct and indirect jobs, and contribute $46 million to Ghana’s GDP.
