Fishing communities demand revocation of offshore gold exploration licences over livelihood concerns

The Association of Artisanal Fishing Communities has called for an immediate stoppage of offshore gold exploration, warning that it could harm fish populations, coastal livelihoods, and Ghana's food security. These groups, which include chief fishermen, canoe owners, fishing crews, fish processors, and traders, argue that they were not consulted before the reconnaissance licenses were granted.

Kenneth Arthur, General Secretary of the Canoe and Fishing Gears Association of Ghana, emphasized that the ocean is a living ecosystem that supports fishing families and coastal communities, not just a resource to be exploited. He stressed that the protection of traditional fishing grounds is crucial for the survival of present-day fishing communities and future generations.

The association claims that offshore gold exploration could damage marine habitats, deplete fish stocks, and disrupt access to traditional fishing grounds, with severe consequences for fishing communities and the broader fisheries sector. Arthur warned that activities causing harm to marine environments could not only affect fishermen but also those who rely on the fisheries value chain for their income.

He cautioned against a scenario where the marine environment becomes depleted of fish and biodiversity, leaving coastal communities struggling to maintain their livelihoods. The association argues that safeguarding the ocean is vital for both present-day fishing communities and preserving marine resources for future generations.

They insist that decisions affecting Ghana's marine resources must consider the interests of fishing communities, given their dependence on fishing for livelihoods and food security. The association urges the President and the government to not only suspend offshore gold exploration activities but also revoke the reconnaissance licenses and abandon plans for offshore gold exploration and exploitation in Ghana's coastal waters.