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The Aquaculture for Food and Jobs Programme was unveiled by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, in Nsuaem in the Central Region.
It was a historic occasion. The government’s dedication to job creation, food security, and sustainable development is demonstrated by this program. It is a major turning point for Ghana’s agriculture industry, which aims to use the country’s plentiful water resources to raise nutritional standards and create sustainable livelihoods.
Underscoring aquaculture’s enormous potential, President Akufo-Addo declared that the industry is an essential part of the world food chain. Almost half of all fish produced worldwide is presently produced through aquaculture, and this percentage is rising as wild fish supplies decline as a result of overfishing and environmental changes.
Fish is a staple food in Ghana and accounts for a large portion of the country’s nutritional intake. But because domestic production cannot keep up with demand, significant imports are necessary, placing a pressure on the nation’s foreign exchange reserves.
Ghana needed 1.31 million metric tons of fish in 2022, but only 657,000 tonnes were produced there. Due to this shortage, 650,000 tonnes of fish had to be imported, which cost $311 million. By increasing local fish production, the Aquaculture for Food and Jobs Programme seeks to close this gap by lowering reliance on imports, preserving foreign exchange, and guaranteeing the supply of fresh fish produced domestically.
The programme’s impact extends beyond increasing fish production. It is poised to transform lives by creating thousands of jobs, particularly for the youth and women. The initiative will provide training and support to aspiring fish farmers, equipping them with the skills and resources necessary for success. It will also foster a network of fish farms across the country, enhancing Ghana’s capacity to meet the growing demand for fish and stimulating the development of related industries such as fish feed production, processing, and marketing.
By making fish more accessible and affordable, the programme will combat malnutrition and improve public health. Fish is a rich source of essential nutrients, and increasing its availability will significantly contribute to the nation’s nutritional standards. This initiative is not only an economic driver but also a vital component in the fight against malnutrition.
The programme is being launched in partnership with R&B Farms Ltd., the largest inland fish farm in Ghana, operating on 26 hectares of land in Gomoa Central. Under this project, the government aims to train 10,000 youth in small-scale fish farming. The ripple effect of this initiative is expected to generate an additional 50,000 jobs along the aquaculture value chain, encompassing fish feed production, equipment supply, fish processing, marketing, and distribution.
President Akufo-Addo called on private investors to seize the opportunities presented by this programme, highlighting the substantial market for fish and fish products. With the right investments, the aquaculture sector can be transformed into a major economic driver. Research institutions and universities will play a crucial role in providing the knowledge and technological innovations needed to enhance productivity and sustainability.
Acknowledging the efforts of the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Hon. Mrs. Mavis Hawa Koomson, President Akufo-Addo praised her dedication and hands-on approach. Her leadership has been instrumental in developing this project and implementing decisive initiatives such as the annual close season for fishing, which has restored fish stocks and promoted aquaculture as a viable economic sector.
The government will teach young people in fish farming and help them develop their talents under this initiative. Within six months, they will be able to launch successful fish farming enterprises thanks to the seed capital provided by tarpaulin cages, fingerlings, and fish feed.
A big step toward a better future for Ghanaian women and youth is marked by the opening of the Aquaculture for Food and Jobs Program. It seeks to supply the demand for fish, lessen reliance on imports, and create well-paying jobs. In expressing his thanks to all of the partners, stakeholders, and hardworking teams that helped bring this project to fruition, President Akufo-Addo emphasized the significance of teamwork in transforming aquaculture in Ghana.
With this program, which aims to create a stronger, healthier, and more successful country, Akufo-Addo urged all Ghanaians to support it.
Source: Ghanatodayonline.com
