Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has raised alarm over the worsening pollution of Ghana’s coastal waters, blaming illegal mining (galamsey) and widespread plastic waste for posing serious risks to marine life and fishing communities.
She described the situation as a significant threat to the marine ecosystem and the livelihoods of fisherfolk, urging collective action to protect the nation’s water bodies.
The Vice President made these remarks during a working visit to the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture, where she emphasized the need to shield Ghana’s seas from toxic substances that harm marine species and endanger public health.
According to her, waste from galamsey activities finding its way into the ocean is unacceptable, warning that the discharge of harmful materials into the sea contaminates fish stocks and directly affects human health.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang also lamented what she called a declining respect for the fishing profession. She pointed to countries such as Japan and South Korea, where fishing is highly valued and supported through specialised fisheries secondary schools that enhance skills development and knowledge transfer.
She reaffirmed government’s commitment to improving the welfare of fisherfolk and called for greater appreciation of their contribution to livelihoods and the national economy, stressing that they deserve both support and respect.
