Work has begun on two fishing harbours at Elimina and Mumford in the Central Region. The projects form part of an elaborate package to construct 14 fishing harbours and landing sites along the coast. These are to improve the conditions under which fishermen work and also upgrade the fish-landing facilities and infrastructure.
President Kufuor who performed both sod cutting ceremonies lamented the huge fish imports which stand at $200m annually inspite of the long stretch of coast line and many water bodies. He stressed that the government is undertaking the fish project at the cost of $148m to ensure that the fishing industry is improved so as to cut down on fish imports.
President Kufuor said apart from introducing scientific, legal and prudent management measures into the fishing industry, there is also a vigorous push towards the development of aqua culture. He said government will help the fisher folks to acquire the most modern fishing gears and equipment. President Kufuor asked Ghanaians to let their conduct and utterances whether in private or in public promote peace.
The Minister of Fisheries, Gladys Asmah told the gathering that Ghana is the fourth leading producer of Tuna in the world. She hoped with the modernization of the industry with cold stores and harbours many companies will invest in the sector. Mrs. Asmah called on the chiefs and people of the two communities to properly maintain the projects.
The Omanehene of Edina Traditional Area, Nana Kojo Conduah thanked President Kufuor for honouring the promises he made to the people of Elmina. He mentioned in particular the dredging of the Benya Lagoon and the upgrading of the District into a municipal status. He appealed to President Kufuor to help rehabilitate the bridge on Benya Lagoon which is in a dangerous state.
