The United States, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), has contributed over GH¢500,000 ($31,000) to host Ghana’s inaugural Responsible Fishing Awards. This initiative, organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development and the Fisheries Commission, aims to encourage positive behavior changes within the fisheries sector, emphasizing sustainability and responsible practices.
The awards ceremony celebrated notable achievements in the fishing community, recognizing individuals and groups that exemplified best practices. Winners included Edward Tetteh Amesimeku, awarded as the most responsible fisher, Joana Quaicoe, the top fish processor, and the Azizanya community in the Greater Accra Region, named the most responsible fishing community. Additional awards were presented for the cleanest landing beach, best community fisheries leader, and best fisheries reporter, with recipients receiving citations, community dustbins, public address systems, canopies, and chairs, depending on their category.
“This ceremony provides an opportunity to recognize those making significant contributions to safeguarding the future of Ghana’s fisheries,” said Andrew Read, Director of USAID’s Economic Growth Office in Ghana. He emphasized the importance of responsible fishing practices, stating, “The United States supports responsible fishing in Ghana because fish are an essential source of food, nutrients, and livelihoods for millions of Ghanaians.” The awards were part of the USAID-supported Feed the Future Ghana Fisheries Recovery Activity, with recipients selected based on their adherence to fishing regulations, sustainable methods, and hygienic handling and processing of fish.
As Ghana’s largest bilateral development partner, the United States has committed over $140 million in bilateral assistance through USAID in 2023, targeting economic growth, agriculture, health, education, and governance. In addition, USAID is investing $24 million (over GH¢355 million) in multi-year initiatives to restore Ghana’s coastal fisheries and enhance ocean conservation efforts along the coast. The Responsible Fishing Awards mark a significant step toward fostering a sustainable fishing industry in Ghana, ensuring that its rich marine resources can benefit future generations.
