The Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Emelia Louisa Kobiaba Ama Atinka Arthur, has reaffirmed her commitment to strengthening Ghana’s fisheries sector, particularly inland fisheries and aquaculture.

She made this pledge during the commissioning of a newly constructed primary school in CK Kope, Tapa Abotoase, in the Biakoye District in the Oti region.

Speaking at the event, the Minister emphasised the critical role of human capital in national development. She noted that while Ghana is endowed with natural resources, its full potential can only be harnessed through a well-trained and knowledgeable workforce.

“I have always said, and I continue to maintain, that natural resources alone are not enough. Without the right human resources—those who are trained and equipped with both school and home knowledge—the exploitation of these resources is futile. We need skilled human capital to explore and fully benefit from our natural resources,” she stated.

Mrs Arthur highlighted her personal commitment to education and described the school project as a crucial investment for the community, particularly for children from fishing families.

She commended local leaders and stakeholders for their dedication to education, underscoring its importance in transforming lives and improving livelihoods.

The Minister shed light on the significance of the fisheries sector in Ghana, stating that it provides 60 per cent of the country's protein consumption and sustains the livelihoods of approximately 2 to 3 million people across its value chain.

She stressed the need to reset the fisheries sector to ensure sustainability, profitability, and long-term benefits for both fishers and consumers.

“In Ghana, we have marine fisheries along the coast, inland fisheries for freshwater fishing, and aquaculture farming. Unfortunately, we have historically focused more on marine and coastal fisheries, often neglecting inland fisheries and aquaculture. My responsibility as Minister is to ensure a balanced approach,” she remarked.

Mrs Arthur assured inland fishers of her commitment to improving their sector, pledging to enhance policies and support mechanisms that would boost inland fisheries and aquaculture.

She also acknowledged the concerns raised by Jacob, President of the National Inland Canoe Fishermen’s Council, regarding the need for greater engagement with inland fishers.

“I stand here today, pledging to improve the inland fisheries sub-sector, ensuring that it receives the attention it deserves. I have taken note of the calls for more engagement, and I assure you that we will work together to enhance opportunities for inland fishers,” she stated.

The event also provided a moment for the Minister to reflect on long-standing relationships within the community. Mrs Arthur shared fond memories of her association with local leaders, recounting how their friendship had evolved over the years.

“There are so many lessons to learn from your journey, lessons that we, the young people, will take to heart as we strive to be better citizens, just as you have been—a magician in your field, the one who manages the oil,” she remarked, addressing a respected local figure.

Her speech was met with enthusiasm from the audience, particularly members of the fishing community who expressed optimism about the Minister’s commitment to addressing their concerns.

The commissioning of the primary school was hailed as a significant milestone for CK Kope, with community members lauding the government’s efforts in improving education infrastructure.

The new school is expected to provide a conducive learning environment for children, particularly those from fishing families, ensuring that they receive quality education alongside their parents’ fishing activities.

Mrs Arthur concluded her speech by reaffirming her ministry’s dedication to supporting fishers across Ghana, urging all stakeholders to work together in building a sustainable and prosperous fisheries sector.

“We have no choice but to revitalise the fisheries sector in a way that benefits fishers, consumers, and the entire nation. Together, we can make Ghana’s fisheries industry a model of success,” she stated.

The commissioning event was attended by local government officials, traditional leaders, and members of the fishing community, all of whom expressed gratitude for the government’s commitment to education and fisheries development.

This development marks a positive step toward enhancing both education and fisheries in the Biakoye District, with the community hopeful for more initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods and economic growth.