News
Winneba-Penche fishers urges Government to abolish Close Fishing Season amid economic struggles
Local fishers in Winneba-Penche are calling on the government to reconsider the implementation of the close fishing season, citing severe economic hardships and the impact on their livelihoods.
During a recent interview at the Winneba fishing harbor, representatives from various fishing communities expressed their frustrations over the seasonal ban, which they argue exacerbates financial difficulties for families dependent on fishing as their primary source of income.
The close fishing season, aimed at allowing fish stocks to replenish, has been a contentious issue among local fishers who claim it disproportionately affects their economic stability.
“We understand the need for sustainable fishing practices, but the current policies are pushing us deeper into poverty,” said Nii Quaye, a veteran fisher and spokesperson for the local fishing community.
“We need to feed our families and support our children’s education. The close season has left many of us struggling,” he added.
Fishers reported that during the closed months, many have resorted to alternative jobs, often with limited success.
The reliance on fishing is deeply rooted in the culture and economy of Winneba, where fishing has been a way of life for generations.
The community is urging the government to explore alternative measures that balance sustainability with the economic realities faced by fishers. Suggestions include implementing more effective monitoring of fish stocks and promoting responsible fishing practices without imposing a complete ban.
He said, “We are not against conservation; we just want a fair chance to work and provide for our families,” added Nii Quaye. “We hope the government will listen to our concerns and work with us to find a solution that benefits everyone.”
As discussions continue, local leaders are preparing to present a formal petition to the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, seeking dialogue on potential reforms to the current fishing regulations.
The situation remains tense as fishers await a response from authorities, hoping for a resolution that prioritizes both ecological health and economic viability for their communities.
By Abu Jochebed Borkai
The Majority Chief Whip and Member of Parliament for South Dayi, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, says Parliament and government officials are working closely with authorities in the Netherlands following the detention of the Member of Parliament for Asante Akyem North, Kwame Ohene Frimpong.
Speaking on the matter on Channel One news yesterday, Mr. Dafeamekpor disclosed that the MP was detained at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam on Sunday while travelling on a private trip.
According to him, Mr. Frimpong personally informed him about the incident around 5 a.m. on the day of the arrest.
He said the issue was immediately escalated to parliamentary leadership and other state officials for intervention.
Mr. Dafeamekpor explained that the Majority Leader, who was in transit at Heathrow Airport in London at the time, travelled to Schiphol to engage the detained MP and better understand the situation.
He added that the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ghana’s Ambassador to The Hague, the Attorney General, the Speaker of Parliament and the Clerk to Parliament had all been involved in efforts to address the matter.
According to him, a Ghanaian lawyer based in The Hague and qualified to practise there has also been engaged to represent the MP.
“The lawyer is dealing with the issues, but let me confirm that he is fine,” Mr. Dafeamekpor stated.
He noted that Parliament and the legal team were still waiting for official documents, including an authenticated copy of the arrest warrant and other details from Dutch prosecutors handling the matter.
The South Dayi MP therefore urged the media and the public to avoid speculation until all facts surrounding the case are confirmed.
“We want to urge all the media houses not to be throwing in things that have not been confirmed,” he said.
Mr. Dafeamekpor further explained that Parliament’s involvement was partly because the MP was travelling with a diplomatic passport.
He noted that extradition and detention cases involving political figures are not uncommon internationally, citing examples such as former Chilean leader Augusto Pinochet and Julian Assange.
According to him, authorities are hopeful the matter can be resolved for the MP to return to Ghana safely.
He appealed to the MP’s family, colleagues in Parliament and the public to remain calm while diplomatic and legal processes continue.
By: Jacob Aggrey
Ghana Water Ltd has announced temporary water supply interruptions in several parts of western Accra following technical challenges at the Weija Water Treatment Plant.
In a press release issued on May 13, the company explained that the challenges had affected water production and distribution in some communities.
According to the management of the company, residents in areas including Dansoman, Mamprobi, Mataheko, Laterbiokorshie, Korle Bu, La Paz, MacCarthy Hill, Gbawe, Mallam, Tesano, Darkuman, North Kaneshie, Dome, Achimota, Anyaa and Ablekuma may experience low water pressure and erratic water supply.
Management noted that engineers and technical teams were working to fix the problem and restore normal water supply as soon as possible.
The company advised consumers to store water whenever there is flow in their communities in order to manage the temporary disruption.
It urged essential service providers to contact their Assembly Members or the Ghana Water Ltd Call Centre for assistance.
The company apologized to customers affected by the situation and appealed for calm and cooperation while efforts continue to resolve the challenge.
By: Jacob Aggrey
