At Jamestown, in the Greater Accra Region, President Akufo-Addo inaugurated an ultra-modern fishing harbour.
Through the building of the Jamestown Fishing Harbour, he noted, Ghana hopes to lessen its need on imported fish.
Up to 4,000 direct and indirect employment for young people in the Ga community are anticipated to be created by the new facility, which include a cold storage unit, a fish processing center, a fire and police station, and a crèche.
President Akufo-Addo stated that the project will increase fish harvests and assist reduce post-harvest losses during his remarks at the harbor’s commissioning.
“It will create jobs, empower the economy and revitalise the lives of the fisherfolk and traders of Jamestown. We will inject new energies into the heart of this community. I have no doubt that its benefits will ripple across the nation,” he stated.
The harbour, which is equipped with a range of modern facilities, is designed to address some of the long-standing challenges faced by Ghana’s artisanal fishing sector. These include the safe launching and landing of canoes, improved fish handling, and enhanced storage capacities.
Notable features of the port include a 200-capacity fish market, a 60-tonne ice-making plant, a 200-tonne cold store, and market stalls, among others. A daycare centre has also been included to support women traders, allowing them to conduct their business with peace of mind, knowing their children are safe.
“This is not just a building; it is an investment in the future of this community. The inclusion of daycare centres demonstrates a governance of compassion, one that empowers women and strengthens families,” President Akufo-Addo remarked.
A quota for the employment of Ga youth in the Jamestown Fishing Harbour facility’s operation was requested by the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru the second.
“I stand also as the voice of the Ga Dangbe Youth whose heritage is rooted in this land waters. I appeal to the Ministry of Transportation to ensure that a quota is allocated for the benefit of our young people. They must not be observers of this commercial [venture] and major transformation. They deserve a seat at the table to benefit and to thrive,” Ga Matse said.
Source: Ghanatodayonline.com