The National Premix Fuel Secretariat (NPFS) has intensified efforts to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of premix fuel funds across Ghana’s coastal communities. This follows a comprehensive three-day monitoring and training exercise conducted in the Central and Western Regions.
The Community Development Fund, established under Regulation L.I. 2233, is a key element of the premix fuel distribution system. According to the regulation, 53% of the proceeds from premix fuel are allocated directly to community development projects in coastal and fishing communities. This fund empowers local communities to prioritize and implement development projects based on their unique needs, fostering grassroots involvement and transparency.
The rationale for the fund is to ensure that the benefits of premix fuel extend beyond subsidizing fuel for artisanal fishers. It directly supports vital community infrastructure, such as schools, healthcare facilities, sanitation systems, and market centres. By giving communities the authority to manage these funds, the NPFS strengthens local ownership of development initiatives and ensures that projects align with the community’s specific priorities.
The NPFS’s “Premix Accountability Series,” was conducted across landing beaches in Abura Asebu Kwamankese, Cape Coast, Mfantsiman, Sekondi-Takoradi, and Komenda Edina Eguafo Abrem. It provided Landing Beach Committee (LBC) members with essential training on proper record-keeping and fund management practices.
NPFS Administrator Ebow Mensah highlighted the success of the initiative, noting that it revealed significant gaps in community awareness regarding the use of premix funds.
“Many community members were unaware that 53% of premix proceeds are meant for community development,” he stated.
He further emphasized that the engagement has led to improved transparency and a deeper understanding of the premix fund management process.
GHC545,513.62 Accounted For
As of February 25, 2026, a significant milestone was achieved with 20 landing beach committees from Abura Asebu Kwamankese, Cape Coast, and Mfantsiman submitting their financial reports. These committees collectively declared a total of GHC545,513.62 in Community Development Funds, a sum earmarked for essential local infrastructure projects.
The funds, allocated through the premix fuel proceeds, will support a range of community-driven initiatives, from schools and healthcare centres to market sheds, sanitation facilities, and improvements to landing sites.
These investments not only address immediate needs but also empower the communities to shape their own development, fostering a sense of ownership and ensuring that the projects reflect the priorities of local populations. Through this allocation, the lives of artisanal fishers and their families stand to be greatly enhanced, as the funds directly contribute to strengthening vital community infrastructure.
However, the monitoring exercise also uncovered some troubling issues. Several alleged unauthorized withdrawals were made by former members of the Landing Beach Committees between 2017 and 2025. Among the cases that raised concern were withdrawals of GHC6,300 from OLA Landing Beach, GHC3,700 from Komantse Landing Beach, and GHC8,400 from Anomabo Main, all of which were allegedly processed through cheques issued by the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB). These withdrawals have prompted further scrutiny, raising doubts about the proper management and accountability of community resources.
Recovery Measures Underway
The NPFS has since taken steps to recover the misappropriated funds. A Landing Beach Committee Recovery Account has been established to ensure that the funds are returned to the community and redirected toward development projects. “These funds belong to the community, not individuals. We are committed to recovering every pesewa and ensuring it is used for the benefit of the community,” said the NPFS Administrator.
Demand notices have been issued to former LBC members who failed to provide proper financial reports between 2017 and 2024. Legal action is being considered against those responsible for unauthorized withdrawals.
Commitment to Long-Term Community Development
The NPFS’s monitoring and training initiatives emphasize the importance of local involvement in managing premix fuel funds. The 53% allocation for community development is essential to ensuring that funds address the specific needs of coastal communities. By empowering these communities to manage their own development, the NPFS is fostering a sustainable and transparent system that benefits both the fishing industry and broader community development goals.
The NPFS remains committed to maintaining this accountability system, ensuring that funds derived from premix fuel sales are used effectively to improve the livelihoods of fishing communities across Ghana.
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Source: Alhaji Ibrahim Adam/ATLFMNEWS
