Accra: The Fishers Welfare Scheme has been launched at Apo-Bakano in the Shama municipality of the Western Region, aiming to enhance the social wellbeing and welfare of fishers in the area. The initiative is designed to provide various benefits to support the local fishing community.

According to Ghana News Agency, the scheme mandates canoe owners to contribute a monthly amount of 100 cedis to an ADB account. This contribution will cover several benefits, including health insurance, free health screenings, accident or incident benefits, input credit allowance, and allow for partial withdrawal after 24 continuous months of savings.

Madam Emelia Arthur, the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, praised the Canoe and Fishing Gear Owners Association for their efforts to address the challenges faced by fishers, particularly the issue of periodic poverty. She emphasized the need for sustainable fishing practices in the face of climate change, discouraging the use of dynamite, light fishing, and unapproved chemicals for fish preservation.

The minister also announced that the Cape Three Points area has been declared a marine protected space, urging fishers to comply with this regulation. She highlighted the importance of crew safety and security, noting it as a priority for the Ministry. Furthermore, Madam Arthur addressed concerns regarding delays in the supply of premix fuel, attributing them to rehabilitation work at the Tema Oil Refinery, and assured that the government has resolved existing debts to improve supply.

Nana Kweigyah, President of the Canoe and Fishing Gear Owners Association, remarked on the critical role of fishers’ welfare in the industry’s sustainability. He commended the Ministry for its initiatives supporting artisanal fishers but advocated for an insurance scheme for them. He also requested that materials and equipment be provided directly to canoe owners, bypassing intermediaries.