Government Set to Launch Aquaculture Development Fund- Fisheries Minister
By Praisebell Rosemond Larbi
Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Madam Emelia Arthur, has urged stakeholders in the aquaculture sector to rally behind the government’s ongoing efforts to expand fish production and strengthen food security through sustainable aquaculture practices.
Speaking at the Aquaculture Stakeholders Forum in Accra, the Minister emphasized that collaboration among government agencies, private investors, and development partners remains crucial to achieving the country’s vision of a thriving and sustainable aquaculture industry.
Madam Arthur disclosed that the government, under the leadership of Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, is set to launch a comprehensive Aquaculture Development Fund to improve access to financing for agribusinesses operating within the aquaculture value chain. The initiative, she said, forms part of the government’s broader strategy to modernize the fisheries sector and reduce the country’s heavy reliance on fish imports.
“The establishment of the Aquaculture Development Fund will provide targeted financial support to entrepreneurs, cooperatives, and small-scale fish farmers who are committed to sustainable production. It will empower local actors, promote innovation, and create decent jobs, particularly for the youth and women in rural communities,” the minister explained.
She stressed that aquaculture has become one of the fastest-growing food production sectors globally, and Ghana must take deliberate steps to harness its full potential. “Our national demand for fish continues to rise each year, but local production has not kept pace. This fund and the policies accompanying it will help us close that gap,” she added.
The Minister further highlighted the government’s commitment to establishing a robust legal and institutional framework to ensure that investments in aquaculture align with environmental protection and climate resilience goals.
She noted that the Ministry is working closely with the Bank of Ghana, financial institutions, and technical partners to ensure that the fund operates transparently and delivers tangible results. “Accountability and sustainability are central to the success of this initiative,” she remarked.
Mrs. Arthur also called on industry players to adopt best practices in hatchery management, feed production, and disease control to enhance productivity and competitiveness. “Our aquaculture industry must be driven by innovation and efficiency, adding that strong public–private partnerships will be critical to scaling up production and meeting domestic demand,” she said.
She reaffirmed the Ministry’s resolve to make aquaculture a cornerstone of Ghana’s blue economy strategy, positioning the country as a regional leader in sustainable fish farming.
“With collective commitment, investment, and responsible stewardship, we can transform aquaculture into a key driver of economic growth, nutrition, and employment,” Madam, Arthur concluded.
