The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development has officially declared the 2025 closed season for Ghana’s fishing industry. According to the announcement, inshore fleets will observe the mandatory break from July 1 to July 31, while industrial trawlers will remain off the waters until August 31.
The closed season is a critical component of the government’s broader strategy to protect and replenish Ghana’s marine fish stocks, in line with sustainable fishing practices.
Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, June 23, 2025, Sector Minister and Member of Parliament for Shama, Emelia Arthur, disclosed that artisanal canoe fishers will be exempt from this year’s closed season. However, they are still expected to respect weekly Tuesday fishing holidays and adhere to all fishing laws and regulations.
“These measures are aligned with Ghana’s national fisheries strategy and reflect international best practices for sustainable resource management,” Minister Arthur noted. “Although artisanal fishers are exempt from the closed season, they are still required to comply with traditional norms and statutory regulations governing the sector.”
The minister reaffirmed government’s commitment to identifying alternative strategies that meet the long-term goals of the closed season initiative while minimizing disruptions to livelihoods.
To enhance compliance and coordination, Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) have been directed to engage local fisherfolk and closely monitor their activities throughout the closure period.
Additionally, the ministry has commissioned independent evaluators to study the impact of exempting artisanal fishers from the closed season. Their findings will inform future policy decisions aimed at balancing ecological sustainability with socioeconomic realities.
The Ministry reiterated that protecting Ghana’s marine resources remains a shared responsibility and urged all stakeholders to work collaboratively to safeguard the country’s fishing future.
Story By: Afia Ohenewaa Akyerem