The Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Emelia Arthur, has underscored the importance of boosting local food production as a necessary step toward securing Ghana’s long-term food stability.

Addressing the 41st National Farmers’ Day celebration at Ho, the Volta Regional capital, the Minister said the nation’s pursuit of food security must be anchored on strengthened local production systems, particularly in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors.

She announced that the government had launched the country’s first inland fishing production project aimed at increasing domestic fish supply, explaining that the initiative formed part of a broader effort to ensure abundant fish stock for national consumption.

Madam Arthur noted that significant investments had been made in modernising the fisheries sector, which included improvements in transportation, production infrastructure, and technological capacity.

She said these interventions would help guarantee consistent availability of fish to meet the nutritional needs of Ghanaians.

The Minister stated that both aquaculture and marine ecosystems had been enhanced through scientific management and targeted development programmes to boost yields.

She expressed optimism that, despite challenges facing the sector, the Ministry and its partners were committed to achieving lasting results.

Madam Arthur, who is also the Member of Parliament (MP) for Shama in the Western Region, urged the public to support farmers and fishers, describing them as the backbone of the nation’s food supply chain.

She emphasised that their continuous efforts were crucial in feeding the country’s growing population.

This year’s celebration honoured 31 individuals and organisations for their outstanding contributions to agriculture and fisheries.

The prestigious 2025 National Best Farmer award went to 82-year-old Opanin Abraham Kwaku Adusei, who was celebrated for decades of dedication to farming excellence.