Dr. Archibald Yao Letsa, the Volta Regional Minister has lauded the novel Aquaculture for Food and Jobs Programme initiated by the Ministry for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development.

He said this when he delivered the opening remarks at the final series of training under the Aquaculture for Food and Jobs Programme in Ho in the Volta region.

Welcoming the beneficiaries participating in the programme in the region, Dr. Letsa urged the trainees to take the exercise seriously, emphasising the potential of the training to empower them economically and generate sustainable income.

Dr. Letsa noted that the government's involvement extends beyond training, promising support in the early stages of the business setup.

“This training is a valuable opportunity for you all,” said Dr. Letsa.

“It is not just about learning the techniques of aquaculture, but also about generating an income that will enable you to take care of your families, pay school fees, and enhance your standard of living.”

The training sessions, which covered 776 beneficiaries across different districts in the Volta Region, tackled various aspects of aquaculture business development, from fish farming techniques to the principles of marketing and finance. Beneficiaries were equipped with the necessary skills to embark on sustainable fish farming, which is expected to contribute to food security, employment, and economic growth within the region and beyond.

Dr. Letsa stressed the importance of dedication and hard work throughout the programme, encouraging the participants to apply the knowledge gained to ensure the success of their ventures.

“Your determination and effort will determine the outcome of this venture. By taking this training seriously and putting in the necessary hard work, you can create a sustainable business that not only supports nyou but also contributes to the development of the region," he added.

In addition to the emphasis on business development, Dr. Letsa underscored the financial benefits of pursuing aquaculture.

He reminded the beneficiaries of the potential to generate income to support themselves and their families, highlighting how aquaculture can be a viable solution to economic challenges and an avenue for self-sufficiency.

The programme that is part of the government's broader strategy to promote sustainable livelihoods and boost the aquaculture sector, providing participants with practical knowledge on starting and managing an aquaculture business.

The Aquaculture for Food and Jobs Programme aims to train and support over 10,000 Ghanaians to establish aquaculture businesses.

It is being implemented by the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture with service provision by R and B Farms, the largest indigenous inland fish farm in Ghana, operating on over 32 hectares of land.