Dr. Angela Lamptey, a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Marine and Fisheries Science at the University of Ghana, emphasized the critical need for concerted action to prevent a complete ban on Ghana’s fish exports to the European Union (EU).
She highlighted that Ghana has already received a yellow card from the EU due to concerns over unethical fishing practices that endanger both consumers and the environment.
Pointing out deficiencies in Ghana’s monitoring systems and legal frameworks within the fishing industry, she exacerbated these challenges stating “We fear other countries may follow suit if the EU goes ahead to ban our fish from their market and we may also lose foreign exchange earnings from that area”, she expressed the concern.
She made these remarks following her address to stakeholders at an IWatch Africa event focused on coastal communities, where she reassured attendees about ongoing efforts to tackle these issues.
Drawing from IWatch Africa’s findings, Dr. Lamptey also noted significant foreign influence in Ghana’s fishing sector, including politically exposed persons (PEPs) among company owners.
She criticized the lack of transparency and accountability, highlighting that many PEPs have not disclosed their status as required by law, and called for stricter enforcement measures.
Additionally, Dr. Lamptey advised all stakeholders to collaborate in restoring Ghana’s compliance status and ensuring the sustainability of its fisheries sector.
“We are putting in more efforts to make things right. We hope that the EU will assess us again and give the necessary recommendation where necessary. We have done a lot of work in this regard and I can say that very soon Ghana may be out of this category else it will be a worry for many”, he said.
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Source: Comfort Sweety Hayford/ATLFMNEWS
