Committee on Blue Economy sets off to work

The Blue Economy Committee (BEC), set up to fine-tune the process for the formation of the Blue Economy Commission (BEC), has held its maiden meeting in Accra. 

The high-level engagement marked a critical milestone in the journey toward establishing the BEC aimed at spearheading the sustainable development of Ghana’s marine and coastal resources.

Chaired by the Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Emelia Arthur, the meeting brought together key stakeholders and experts who are currently steering the formulation of the Commission.

The commission aims to promote responsible stewardship of Ghana’s marine assets, with a core focus on enforcing sustainable fishing practices and promoting eco-friendly technologies.

Committee’s work

Giving the terms of reference of the Committee, Mrs Arthur said it would strengthen monitoring, control and surveillance (MCS) to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, support sustainable aquaculture as an alternative to pressure on wild fish stocks, as well as protect marine and coastal ecosystems from pollution and degradation.

The committee’s work, she said, would also encourage investment in fisheries, ecotourism and marine biotechnology, develop climate adaptation strategies for the fisheries sector and implement strategies.

The Blue Economy Committee is made up of seasoned professionals with diverse expertise, such as Dr Kwame Mfodwo, Consultant, AU-IBAR; Prof. Georgina Yaa Oduro, University of Cape Coast; Dr Felix Yobo, Director and Sustainable Ocean Focal Point, NDPC; Marian Kpakpa, Chief Director, Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture; Prof. Berchie Asiedu, DED Technical, Fisheries Commission; Esi Border Quayson, Director, Marine, Fisheries Commission, and Fred Kwasi Antwi-Boasi, Coordinator for consultations on the establishment of the Blue Economy Commission.

Sustained collaboration

Mrs Arthur reaffirmed the government’s dedication to a sustainable and prosperous future for Ghana’s coastal and inland waters.

She praised the committee’s efforts and called for sustained collaboration moving forward.

“This initiative is a game-changer for Ghana's fisheries and marine resources. Through strong policies, investments and community engagement, we can transform our blue economy into a pillar of sustainable growth,” she stated.

At the maiden meeting, Committee members took the opportunity to brief the Minister on the progress made so far, and Mrs Arthur expressed her satisfaction with the quality of work and the commitment shown by the team.

As work continues, the BEC is expected to finalise the framework that will establish the Commission, which will play a pivotal role in securing the nation’s marine future balancing environmental conservation with economic prosperity.