We must act with urgency to protect oceans — Fisheries Ministry

Ghana has renewed its commitment to safeguarding marine resources as part of activities marking the World Oceans Day 2026.

The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture has acknowledged that oceans remain central to food security, jobs and national development.

In a statement issued on Monday, June 8, the ministry called for stronger collective action to protect marine ecosystems from growing threats.

Speaking on the occasion, the sector minister Emelia Arthur stressed the importance of oceans to both the environment and the economy.

“Our oceans are the lifeblood of our planet. In Ghana, they provide food security, employment, and cultural heritage for millions. As custodians of these waters, we must act with urgency and responsibility to protect them from overexploitation, pollution, and climate change,” she said.

She added that government is deepening reforms aimed at ensuring sustainable use of marine resources and improving governance across the fisheries sector.

“I reaffirm Ghana’s commitment to transparency, innovation, and resilience in fisheries governance, ensuring that our oceans remain abundant for generations to come,” she stated.

The ministry noted that efforts are ongoing to strengthen the fight against illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, while also expanding aquaculture development and compliance measures.

As part of its conservation drive, the ministry said Ghana has begun expanding Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) to restore fish stocks and protect biodiversity.

A key milestone highlighted is the establishment of the country’s first Marine Protected Area at Greater Cape Three Points in the Western Region.