The fishing community in Ghana is grappling with the effects of the closed fishing season.
Many fishers initially expressed willingness to comply but voiced concerns about its timing, which they argued coincided with their peak harvest season.
Now, more than a week after the closed fishing season has ended, fishers at Winneba report of disappointing harvests, claiming that the regulation did not yield the expected benefits. Many are frustrated, believing that the closed season has failed to improve their catch.
Kwame Tetteh, a fisherman from Winneba, noted, “We catch more fish in July; the closed season should have been in June and reopened in July.” This sentiment reflects broader dissatisfaction among fishers who believe that the closed season was not optimally timed to improve their yields.
The Convenor for the Fisheries Alliance, Kyei Kwadwo Yamoah defends the regulation, stating it is a necessary step towards preventing the depletion of fish stocks and ensuring long-term sustainability.
He emphasizes, “The closed season is a carefully planned measure to allow fish populations to replenish and grow. Expecting abundant harvests just a week after the closed season is unrealistic.” “It is a communication that must get to all fishers that the fish stock is not how it used to be because of the bad practices in the fisheries sector, so we need to do the closed season over a period to see the fish stock back,” he added.
He further explains that the closed season coincides with the spawning period for many fish species, making it crucial to protect them during this vulnerable time.
Mr Kwadwo Kyei also points out the persistent issue of illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, which undermines efforts to rebuild fish stocks. Without addressing these practices, the benefits of the closed season will remain limited. “The closed season alone cannot help us recover and bring the fish back until we put in measures which include addressing all the IUU, especially the harvesting of juvenile fishes.”
One thing is clear: the path to sustainable fisheries management is complex and requires patience, cooperation, and a commitment to responsible practices. While the closed season may not have delivered immediate results, it remains a vital tool in the quest to protect the marine ecosystem and ensure the long-term viability of the fishing industry.
It is also clear that additional measures, including tackling IUU fishing, are essential for the health of Ghana’s fisheries. This underscores the need for ongoing dialogue and adaptive strategies to ensure the sustainable management of the country’s marine resources.
By Priscilla Armoh Agyapomah
