The United States through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) provided over GH¢500,000 ($31,000) to organise Ghana’s first responsible fishing awards in collaboration with the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development and the Fisheries Commission.

The awards are expected to promote positive behaviour change in the fisheries sector.

The winners include Edward Tetteh Amesimeku, the most responsible fisher, Joana Quaicoe, the most responsible fish processor and the Azizanya community in the Greater Accra Region, the most responsible fishing community.

Other awards were presented for cleanest landing beach, best community fisheries leader, and best fisheries reporter. Award winners received citations, community dustbins, public address systems, canopies, and chairs, depending on the category.

“Today’s ceremony presents an opportunity to recognize those who are making significant contributions to safeguarding the future of Ghana’s fisheries,” said Andrew Read, USAID/Ghana Economic Growth Office Director.

“The United States supports responsible fishing in Ghana because fish are an essential source of food, nutrients and livelihoods for millions of Ghanaians," he added.

The awards were organized under the USAID-supported Feed the Future Ghana Fisheries Recovery Activity and recipients were selected based on their compliance with fishing regulations, sustainable fishing methods, hygienic fish handling and processing techniques, among others.

The United States is Ghana’s largest bilateral development partner. 

In 2023, bilateral assistance from USAID totalled over $140 million dedicated to supporting economic growth and agriculture, health, education, governance, and more.

USAID is providing $24 million (over GH¢355 million) in multi-year investments to restore Ghana’s coastal fisheries and improve ocean conservation along the coast.