As part of efforts to ensure the effective conservation of marine biodiversity, the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Emelia Arthur, has inaugurated a 13-member Technical Advisory Committee to provide strategic guidance and oversight on the establishment and management of marine protected areas (MPAs) under the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture and the Fisheries Commission.

The committee's core mandate is to support the Ministry and the Fisheries Commission in policy formulation, stakeholder coordination, and technical guidance regarding the implementation and monitoring of MPAs across the country.

The committee will also promote the resilience of coastal ecosystems and local livelihoods and ensure the replenishment of fish stocks.

In her address at the induction ceremony, the sector minister emphasised the crucial role of Marine Protected Areas.

“It is important to ensure sustainable fisheries management, conserve marine biodiversity, and improve the livelihoods of coastal communities,” she noted.

She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to participatory and science-based approaches in managing marine resources.

The newly inaugurated Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) comprises distinguished professionals and institutional representatives with expertise in marine science, environmental planning, governance, and community engagement.

Members on the committee include Dr. Evans Kwasi Arizi, Chair; Esi B. Quayson, Director of Fisheries Commission and Vice Chair; Emmanuel Dovlo, Armah Michael, Malcolm Yensaw, Peace D. Gbeckor-Koe.

Others are Ebenezer Ntsiful, Prof. F.K.E. Nunoo, Nana Jojo Solomon, Ismael Nii Adjei Browne, Abena Serwah Asante , Stephen Kankam and Nana Kwesi Agyeman.