TECHIMAN, Bono East Region – On Saturday, May 9, 2026, the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Hon. Emelia Arthur (MP), convened a stakeholder engagement forum in Techiman, Bono East Region. The forum focused on addressing the distribution of attention and resources within Ghana’s fishing industry.
The session, held at the Bono East Regional Coordinating Council conference hall, included Ministry directors, staff, and Regional Directors of Fisheries from across Ghana. The agenda focused on the management and development of inland water resources, an area that has received less attention in previous policy discussions.
A New Strategic Direction
In her address, Hon. Emelia Arthur identified a historical focus on marine fisheries within the sector. She noted that, although Ghana’s fisheries rely on both marine and inland sources, most resources and policy attention have previously been directed toward marine fishing.
“Upon assuming office, the Ministry and I decided to prioritize the development of our inland fisheries,” Minister Arthur stated. “We need to harness the full potential of our lakes and rivers to ensure national food security and economic growth.”
The forum follows a three-day fact-finding mission by the Minister in the Sene East, Sene West, and Pru East Districts. The goal is to meet with local fishers to gather information on the specific challenges affecting inland fisheries in these areas.
Key Developments and Local Governance
The Minister outlined several planned initiatives and policy considerations during the forum:
- National Inland Conference: The Ministry will organize a major national conference toward the end of 2026 dedicated exclusively to inland fisheries.
- Traditional Leadership Proposals: Chiefs along the Volta Lake have submitted a joint proposal to the Ministry outlining a collaborative framework for resource management.
- Enforcement Power: Traditional authorities requested formal powers to enforce laws and compliance within their jurisdictions. Chiefs along the Volta Lake indicated their intention to oversee local waters to address illegal fishing practices.
Regional Support
Regional officials, including the Bono East Regional Minister, Hon. Francis Owusu Antwi, and Chief Director Mr. Issaka Braima Basintale, participated in the engagement.
Hon. Owusu Antwi noted that the Bono East Region could benefit from greater attention to inland fisheries given its proximity to major water bodies.
At the conclusion of the forum, the Ministry committed to reviewing findings from the district visits and incorporating stakeholder input into the planning for the National Inland Conference.
By Ghana Beacon Editorial Team
Published: May 9, 2026
