The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development (MoFA), working in partnership with the Fisheries Commission, has declared the commencement of the 2026 closed fishing season, a measure designed to replenish dwindling fish populations and promote sustainable management of Ghana’s marine resources.
The directive, anchored in Section 47 of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, 2025 (Act 1146), is based on scientific advice and reflects international best practices aimed at rebuilding marine fisheries.
Per the schedule, industrial trawlers will suspend operations for two months, from July 1 to August 31, 2026, while semi-industrial vessels will observe a one-month closure, from July 1 to July 31, 2026.
At a press briefing on Tuesday, April 28, the Ministry clarified that artisanal canoe fishers are exempted from the closure to safeguard livelihoods in coastal communities. However, it emphasized that “the exemption does not absolve them from complying with existing fisheries regulations, including the observance of designated fishing holidays.”
MoFA cautioned strongly against illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) practices such as light fishing and the use of chemicals or explosives, describing them as “a major threat to fish stock recovery and the long-term viability of the sector.”
To ensure adherence, the Ministry announced that enforcement will be stepped up this year, with the Fisheries Enforcement Unit, supported by other state agencies, set to conduct nationwide monitoring and surveillance. Offenders will face strict sanctions under the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act.
The Ministry further assured that it will continue to collaborate with Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies, traditional leaders, and fisher associations to intensify awareness and encourage voluntary compliance.
Government also pledged to maintain close engagement with the scientific community to evaluate both the biological and economic outcomes of the closed season and refine fisheries policy accordingly.
As part of broader conservation measures, MoFA revealed plans to establish Marine Protected Areas, with Ghana’s first such zone at Greater Cape Three Points slated for official declaration.
The Ministry has therefore appealed to stakeholders, particularly association leaders and chief fishermen, to support the directive, stressing that collective action is essential to safeguard the sustainability of Ghana’s marine resources.
Leave a Reply