The Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Emelia Arthur, has announced a nationwide exercise to reconstitute Landing Beach Committees as part of efforts to ensure effective and transparent distribution of premix fuel within the fishing sector.

Speaking at the Government’s Accountability Series, Madam Arthur said the restructuring aims to eliminate dormant and ineffective committees and replace them with capable individuals who can manage premix fuel fairly and efficiently.

"The Ministry is reconstituting Landing Beach Committees nationwide to eliminate inactive and ineffective committees. The new committees will be formed through a transparent and community-led process to enhance local accountability according to the Legislative Instrument that establishes the National Premix Secretariat."

She emphasised that the initiative is crucial in preventing the illegal diversion of premix fuel and ensuring consistent access to the product at approved prices for fisherfolk.

"Premix fuel is now delivered directly from Tema Oil Refinery to Landing Beaches, bypassing intermediaries. These reforms ensure equitable access and reduce corruption and divertions."

Madam Arthur also cited past instances under the previous Nana Akufo-Addo administration where some individuals were alleged to have hoarded and resold diverted premix fuel at inflated prices, disadvantaging genuine fishers.

The Minister reaffirmed her ministry's commitment to ending such exploitative practices and restoring confidence in the premix fuel supply chain.

"Any financial wrongdoing will be prosecuted," she warned.