A scientist at the Crops Research Institute of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR-CRI), Dr Shadrack Kwadwo Amponsah, is calling on the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development to leverage improved aquaculture technologies to get more youth into fish farming.

He cites technologies like the Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS), which has proven to be efficient and high yielding.

“Already, Ghana is about 60 percent sufficient. We’re importing to the tune of 300 million dollars annually just to supplement the fish we consume. It tells you that it's an opportunity.

“Aquaculture presents a huge opportunity for youth employment in Ghana. We can have the youth working on pond construction, design, the production and even marketing.

“If they can get the right support, there will be a huge return for the youth.

“The recirculating Aquaculture set up that we have is what it takes to open up the patronage of people to venture into aquaculture. The technology comes in handy," he said.

He spoke at an aquaculture seminar organised by the Wontesty ventures at the Crops Research Institute, Fumesua.

The workshop saw 25 participants exposed to the benefits of RAS and good financial management practices.

Dr Amponsah, who is also the Director of Wontesty Ventures was happy the workshop has positively impacted the fisheries sector.

“We have demonstrated that it’s possible to make a great livelihood from aquaculture. So far, people are seeing the benefit ,” he said.

The participants were happy the training has been impactful.

“What I have learnt today has really shaped me to be in a better position to know what to do,” Johnson Hayfron said.