Fish fair held in Cape Coast

A two-day fish fair has been held at the Adisadel Park in Cape Coast, aimed at promoting safe fish certification and connecting fish processors to consumers.

About 40 exhibitors, including fish processors with training on fish certification from across the Central Region, participated in the fair.

The fair was organised by the Central and Western Fishmongers Improvement Association (CEWEFIA), the Environmental Justice Foundation (EJF) and Hen Mpoano, with funding from the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (Norad) under the Sustainable Oceans Project.

It was on the theme "Fisheries for tomorrow: Innovation, value addition, safe fish certification and sustainable practices for healthier oceans.

Cornerstone

Speaking on behalf of the Executive Director, Victoria Churchill Koomson, the Programme Officer at CEWEFIA, Nicholas Smith, said for centuries, fishing had been an integral part of the culture, economy and livelihood of Ghanaians, and that the sector still remained a cornerstone of the local and national economy.

However, he observed that the challenges faced by the fisheries sector were immense.

"Our oceans are under threat from overfishing, pollution, climate change and unsustainable practices.

"As stewards of these vital resources, we must take bold actions to protect and conserve our marine ecosystems. We must strive for a future where fishing is not just an economic activity, but a sustainable practice that ensures the health of our oceans and the long-term viability of our industry," he stated.

He called for the use of improved fishing technologies to add value to fish products and extend shelf life.

"By introducing modern techniques, improving hygiene standards and adopting sustainable practices, we can ensure that our fish and seafood products meet both local and international standards, creating new opportunities for export and boosting the competitiveness of our fisheries," he added.

He stated that as customers became more health conscious and discerning, the demand for safe, high-quality fish and seafood products had never been greater." 

Mr Smith said fishes were the country’s life support system but they were increasingly under threat, adding, “we must recognise that sustainability is not just a buzzword but an urgent imperative.”

"Our fisheries depend on healthy marine ecosystems and we have to implement practices that protect these resources,” he stated further.

He condemned the use of unapproved fishing gear and practices, and said the adherence to seasonal fishing regulations and reducing catches were essential to ensuring the long term health of the oceans.

Exhibitors had the opportunity to connect with customers

Let’s sustain fisheries

The Programmes Manager at the Environmental Justice Foundation, Theophilus Boachie-Yiadom, said stakeholders in the fisheries sector must work to sustain the fisheries resources, which were a critical source of livelihood for many communities and families.

He indicated that there were still opportunities available if fishmongers and processors could maintain standards locally and internationally.

The Regional Director of the Food and Drugs Authority, Francisca Obeng, advised the fish mongers to ensure safe food standards were met, warning that the FDA would ensure those who did not meet set standards were dealt with.

The Omanhen of the Oguaa Traditional Area, Osabarimba Kwesi Atta II, who cut the tape to open the fair urged stakeholders in fisheries to commit to good practices that promote sustainable fishery resources.

Exhibitor 

One of the exhibitors, Maame Adwoa Bondziwaa, said better and standardised fish processing was certain to attract more customers and improve their incomes.

She commended organisers for the orientation and support, saying they were ready to cooperate with authorities to enhance the quality of fish sold. 

There was a panel discussion and cooking competition as part of the programme.