MoFA declares 2025 closed fishing season, exempts artisanal fishers

The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture (MoFA), in collaboration with the Fisheries Commission, has announced the 2025 closed season for Ghana’s marine fishing fleet.

At a press conference, Sector Minister Madam Emelia Arthur stated that industrial trawlers will observe a two-month closure from July 1 to August 31, while semi-industrial inshore vessels will close for one month from July 1 to August 31.

“Marine canoe artisanal fishers are exempted from observing the 2025 closed season. However, the exemption does not absolve artisanal fishers from complying with other traditional and statutory fisheries regulations,” she said.

Madam Arthur explained that the closed season was a key management tool to ensure the sustainability of marine resources and the long-term viability of the sector.

She reminded fishers to continue observing Tuesday fishing holidays, a traditional measure enforced by the Fisheries Commission and Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies.

“All fishers are strongly urged to refrain from engaging in illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing practices such as light fishing and the use of harmful chemicals or explosives, which not only endanger the marine ecosystem but also pose risks to human health and threaten the livelihoods of coastal communities,” she warned.

Madam Arthur said the Fisheries Enforcement Unit and other relevant agencies would actively enforce the closure, with strict penalties for violations.

“The Ministry will collaborate closely with the local authorities, community leaders and fishers to ensure that everyone is fully aware of their responsibilities during the closed season.

“Stakeholders are encouraged to report any violations to support effective enforcement,” she added.

The minister disclosed plans to establish Landing Beach Enforcement Committees (LABEC) composed of trained local fishers to monitor activities.

The Ministry is also working with marine scientists to assess the biological, social, and economic impact of the closure and explore the creation of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) to support long-term sustainability.

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