The Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Emelia Arthur, and the Minister for Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, have undertaken a working visit to the Jamestown Fishing Harbour to assess ongoing operations and identify areas requiring urgent intervention.
The inspection forms part of the government’s reset agenda under John Dramani Mahama, aimed at revitalising key sectors of the economy while improving the livelihoods of coastal fishing communities.
The ministers were accompanied by the Deputy Minister for Transport, Dorcas Affo-Toffey, the Deputy Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Sampson Ahi, and the Chief Director of the Ministry of Transport, William Kartey.
The delegation was received by the Director-General of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono, and the Director of Port, Tema, Tebon Zumah, together with management and staff of the Authority.
Speaking during the visit, Ms Arthur said the joint inspection by the Fisheries and Transport ministries demonstrated the government’s commitment to restoring the harbour and ensuring it operates efficiently to support fishing activities.
She noted that the harbour remains an important hub for artisanal fishing and plays a vital role in sustaining the livelihoods of fishermen, fish processors, traders and other actors within the fisheries value chain.
The delegation also engaged with traditional fishing leaders, including Nii Abeo Kyerekwandah and Nii Englishi, who highlighted challenges confronting fishermen at the facility.
Key concerns raised during the inspection included the condition of the harbour’s breakwater, the need for dredging, the state of landing and market areas, and water supply challenges affecting the daily operations of fishermen and fishmongers.
The ministers also toured several facilities at the harbour, including the cold storage facility, fish market and fish processing centre, to assess their current condition and explore ways to rehabilitate and fully utilise them.
Ms Arthur said the visit forms part of broader government efforts to strengthen fisheries infrastructure, enhance security at landing sites and promote sustainable employment opportunities for coastal communities.
She added that improving the operational efficiency of the Jamestown Fishing Harbour would help reduce post-harvest losses, improve fish handling and storage, and support the overall development of Ghana’s fisheries industry.
