Aquaculture on Small Dams and Reservoirs Program Launched in Northern Region, Ghana

Yesterday afternoon, Hon. Musah Abdul-Aziz Ayaba, Deputy Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, launched the Aquaculture on Small Dams and Reservoirs Programat Mion in the Northern Region.

This initiative aims to drive sustainable aquaculture development across the Northern, North-East, Savannah, Upper East, and Upper West Regions as part of the broader Aquaculture for Food and Jobs (AFJ) Initiative commissioned by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on 30th July, 2024.

Why This Program Matters ?

Ghana has a high per capita fish consumption of 25 kg—above the global average of 20 kg. Yet, our fisheries face challenges like illegal fishing, pollution, and habitat destruction, leading to overexploitation and reduced fish production. Despite this, demand for fish keeps rising due to population growth and a strong preference for fish over meat.

Unlocking Ghana’s Potential

Ghana’s abundant water resources and favorable climate make it ideal for expanding fish production through aquaculture. Under this program, four dams/reservoirs per region will each receive four cages stocked with tilapia fingerlings and provided with feed for a full production cycle.

Empowering Our Youth

Twenty youth groups (each with 20 members) will benefit from this initiative. They will receive comprehensive skills training and entrepreneurship support to establish successful aquaculture enterprises. Topics include fish farming as a business, water quality management, feed management, and marketing. Each group will also receive a start-up package to kickstart their journey.

Collaborative Effort

This program’s success is thanks to collaboration with key partners like the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), and the Ghana Irrigation Development Authority (GIDA). We also appreciate the support from traditional authorities, District Assemblies, and community leaders.

This Aquaculture for Food and Jobs initiative is set to be a game-changer for Ghana’s fisheries and aquaculture sector—creating employment, empowering our youth, and contributing to the sustainable growth and food security of our nation.

Together, let’s harness aquaculture’s potential to reduce fish imports, meet national demand, and provide viable opportunities for our youth and women!

In attendance were the DCE of Mion, local Chiefs, and staff from MoFAD and the Fisheries Commission.

Source : MOFAD