Ghana has officially launched the National Aquaculture Development Plan (GNADP) which is designed to increase the national fish stock while enforcing sustainable development upon implementation of the plan that will cover the aquaculture chain in the next five (5) years at a cost of US$ 85 million. The cost will be borne by the government, with support from the nation’s development partners.The Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Mr Nayon Bilijo, stated that the plan is also aimed at enhancing and improving the practice, management and development of aquaculture as a viable business by all stakeholders. Whilst seeking to stimulate improvement in production, marketing, environmental sustainability and social acceptance of Ghana’s fish farm enterprise and related aqua chain. Mr Bilijo said “that the establishment of the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development and the launch of the first ever blueprint on aquaculture had been necessitated by the annual shortfall in fish production against the increasing demand.” Thus, the execution of the plan would include the zoning of high prospective aquaculture areas, especially the Volta Lake and the stipulation of basic infrastructure for high zones such as markets, electricity, roads and many other infrastructures.
Dr. Emmanuel Anokye Frimpong, who is involved in the training of fish farmers under the Aquaculture and Fisheries Collaborative Research Support Program, stated that “Aquaculture is a hands-on activity; it is also a business that involves doing”, he explained that some people struggle in the business “primarily because it is difficult for them to just get their feet wet and their hands dirty”. Dr Frimpong, uttered that the practicality of aquaculture must be understood in order for people and businesses to benefit.
This plan will increase productivity and food security for local expenditures which would result in greater availability of fish in the market which will internally reduce the price of the products therefore ensuring it is more accessible to underprivileged consumers.