Fisheries and Aquaculture’s Minister
Emelia Arthur, applauded the resilience and hard work of Ghana’s farmers, fishers and aquaculture operators as she recognized their critical role in sustaining food security, driving economic growth and supporting community development.
She expressed appreciation to the President for his continuous commitment to modernizing the fisheries sector, enhancing sustainable resource management and improving the livelihoods of fishing communities nationwide.
The 2025, National Farmers’ Day Grand Durbar under the theme “Feed Ghana, Eat Ghana, Secure the Future”, held in Ho was heavily attended by all including the MPs lead by Food, Agriculture and Cocoa Affairs Committee.
The Sector Minister used the occasion to acknowledge the sacrifices of fishermen, fish processors, traders and aquaculture operators whose dedication keeps nutritious fish on Ghanaian tables.
MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS HIGHLIGHTED
Hon. Arthur outlined several milestones achieved in 2025, including:
Passage of the Fisheries&Aquaculture Act, 2025 (Act 1146)
Expansion of the Inshore Exclusion Zone from 6NM to 12NM
Ratification of the WTO Fisheries Subsidies Agreement
Development of the Ghana Blue Economy Strategy
Progress on the first Inland Fisheries Management Plan
Successful National Conference of Chief Fishermen&Queen Fishmongers with an inland edition planned
She reaffirmed Government’s commitment to expanding aquaculture, strengthening MCS, enhancing value addition and promoting skills development across the sector.
The National Best Marine Fisher
Mr. Clemence Sewornu – Agorko, Ketu South District (Volta Region)
A 47-year-old operator of nine canoes employing 358 workers. A community pillar supporting the elderly, promoting sanitation and mentoring young fishers.
National Best Fish Farmer
Mr. Richard Dittoh – Kongo, Upper East Region
Operates a thriving aquaculture farm with cages, tarpaulin tanks and concrete ponds producing tilapia and catfish, creating jobs for youth and women.
National Best Inland Fisher
Mr. Kofi Adukpo – Abodwesekrom, Bono East Region
A 70-year-old with 57 years of experience on the Black Volta. A strong advocate against illegal fishing and a supporter of vulnerable women.
National Best Fish Processor
Madam Margaret Ahadjitse – Bantuma Mbofrakyinu, Central Region
Owner of 70 improved Chorkor smoking kilns, employing 86 workers and supporting young women through mentorship and educational support.
Best Extension Officer (Southern Zone)
Ms. Esther Boateng – Ashanti Region
Recognized for training over 100 fish farmers and leading key aquaculture development projects.
Best Extension Officer (Northern Zone)
Mr. Israel Hanson Otu Arthur – Kintampo, Bono East Region
Developer of the innovative “Aquaculture Solutions Clinic” supporting farmers in aquaculture marketing and compliance.
FISHERIES CATEGORY — AWARDEE ITEM PRESENTATION
National Best Marine Fisher (Agorko, Ketu South – Volta Region)
Double-cabin truck
10 pcs multifilament nets
5 sacks fishing nets
Fishing rope (1)
40HP outboard motor
235 floats
National Best Inland Fisher (Abodwesekrom – Bono East Region)
Double-cabin truck
16 packets twine
Fishing rope (1)
15HP outboard motor
235 floats
2 boxes spool
National Best Aquaculture Farmer (Kongo – Upper East Region)
Double-cabin truck
10 bags fish feed
16 packets twine
Fishing rope (1)
18HP outboard motor
235 floats
National Best Fish Processor (Bantuma Mbofrakyinu – Central Region)
Double-cabin truck
16 packets twine
Fishing rope (1)
18HP outboard motor
235 floats
Best Extension Officers
Yamaha Motorcycle (Southern Zone – Ashanti Region)
Yamaha Motorcycle (Northern Zone – Bono East Region)
In closing, Hon. Emelia Arthur congratulated all awardees and called for deeper collaboration among government, traditional authorities, private sector actors and development partners to build a stronger, more sustainable fisheries sector.
