By; Mabel Annang
Ghana is working to address concerns raised by the European Union, EU regarding illegal fishing practices in its waters. This comes after the EU issued Ghana a yellow card in 2021, a warning that could lead to a ban on fish exports to the EU.
The Scientific and Technical Advice Committee has proposed measures to focus on trawlers, with only 41 out of several vessels complying with regulations and having their licenses renewed.
Dr. Angela Lamptey is a Member of the Scientific and Technical Advice Committee to the Ministry of Fisheries and a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Marine and Fisheries Science, University of Ghana. She explained efforts being made by Ghana to streamline procedures within the fishing sector
Dr. Lamptey said permits and licenses are also being reviewed before renewal, and a new Fisheries Act is being drafted.
Ghana previously received a yellow card from the EU in 2013, which was revoked in 2015 after implementing corrective measures.
The EU is urging Ghana to take stronger action to prevent illegal fishing and ensure the sustainability of its fish stocks.
