The Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Emelia Arthur, has embarked on a 3-day tour of fishing communities in the Volta and Oti Regions.
The tour aimed to engage stakeholders in the fisheries sector and inspect ongoing activities related to the fishing industry.
During her visit, the minister interacted with fishermen and fishmongers, with a view to addressing their concerns and challenges.
She also inspected various fishing facilities, including the Kpeve Tornu Aquaculture Site and the Premix Automation Outlet in the district.
At Kpando in the Volta Region, the minister engaged with inland fishermen where she announced the government’s decision to remove “middlemen” from the premix fuel distribution chain.
She explained that the decision was to eliminate intermediaries and ensure a direct supply of premix fuel to fishermen.
The minister explained that premix fuel will now be transported directly from Accra to landing beach places, eliminating intermediaries.
Emelia Arthur also expressed her readiness to investigate an alleged misappropriation of 53% of premix fuel profits meant for community development under the previous government.
She revealed that over the past eight years, the 53% share meant for community development has not been accounted for and vowed to track down the missing funds.
In addition to addressing the concerns of fishermen and fishmongers, the minister also commissioned a primary school block funded by Star Oil at Tapa CK Kope in the Oti Region.
The project aims to enhance access to quality education among children in fishing communities.
At Dambai in the Krachi East District of the Oti Region, the minister engaged with a large number of fisher folk at a mini durbar.
She also paid a courtesy call on the Chief of Dambia, Nana Kwaku Beyernnor II.
At Tepa Abotoase in the Oti Region, the Minister met with the Omanhene of Tapa Abotoase Traditional Area to discuss strategies for strengthening collaboration and addressing issues in the fisheries and aquaculture sector.
The Chief and his elders expressed gratitude for the Minister’s visit and pledged their support for the government’s efforts to reset the fisheries sector.
Accompanying Minister Arthur on her visit to the Oti Region were John Kwadwo Gyapong, the regional minister, Member of Parliament for Biakoye, Jane Marie Formadi and other senior officials from the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture.
Story By: Emmanuel Coffie
