The 2025 National Conference of Chief Fishermen and Queen Fishmongers has ended successfully after two days of dialogue, knowledge sharing, and strategic reflection at the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC). The event, held from 20–21 November as part of the World Fisheries Day celebrations, brought together traditional authorities, policymakers, academics, civil society groups, and sector stakeholders under the theme: “Resetting Fisheries — Chief Fishermen and Fishmongers as Guardians and Partners in Sustainable Fisheries Management.”
The conference, described as one of the most inclusive fisheries sector engagements in recent years, was graced by key national figures. The President of the Republic, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, attended as Guest of Honour, alongside His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Ga Mantse, who served as Special Guest. The Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Hon. Emelia Arthur, also participated in the discussions, outlining government’s renewed commitment to rebuilding Ghana’s depleted fish stocks and strengthening stakeholder collaboration.
Across the two days, participants examined current challenges facing the sector — including declining fish populations, illegal fishing practices, and threats to marine ecosystems — while highlighting the critical leadership roles played by Chief Fishermen and Queen Fishmongers in coastal community management. The conference provided a platform to reinforce traditional governance structures as partners in sustainable fisheries reforms.
Organisers expressed gratitude to their major partners, including the Bloomberg Ocean Initiative, Blue Ventures, and Oceans 5, whose support helped bring the conference to fruition.
Stakeholders left the event with a shared sense of purpose: to protect Ghana’s marine resources, strengthen community livelihoods, and build a fisheries sector capable of sustaining future generations.
The 2025 conference closes with a unified pledge — to work together, innovate together, and safeguard Ghana’s fisheries together.
