The Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Hon. Emelia Arthur (MP), has underscored Ghana’s determination to deepen international collaboration in sustainable fisheries management, as she welcomed the newly appointed Norwegian Ambassador to Ghana, Dr. John Mikal Kvistad, to her office in Accra.
The courtesy call formed part of Ambassador Kvistad’s introductory engagements following his assumption of duty in Ghana. He was accompanied by Ms. Ingrid Skjolaas, Deputy Head of Mission, and Ms. Mia Kamarainen, Adviser at the Norwegian Embassy.
Discussions between the two sides focused on strengthening cooperation in the fisheries and aquaculture sector, particularly in the areas of sustainable resource management, marine conservation, and the development of the blue economy — a critical frontier for economic growth and environmental resilience.
A Call for Action on Sustainable Ocean Governance
Hon. Emelia Arthur praised Norway’s longstanding partnership with Ghana, describing it as a model of meaningful development cooperation. She highlighted Ghana’s ongoing reforms under the new Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, 2025 (Act 1146), which seeks to modernize the sector, curb illegal fishing practices, and ensure that marine resources are protected for future generations.
“We are committed to transforming Ghana’s fisheries sector into a sustainable and inclusive engine of growth,” the Minister said. “Our collaboration with Norway will help build the skills, systems, and technologies needed to protect our oceans while improving the livelihoods of fishing communities.”
The Minister stressed that the blue economy — encompassing fisheries, aquaculture, coastal tourism, and marine transport — presents a major opportunity for job creation and environmental protection if managed responsibly. She called on development partners and the private sector to invest in innovation, capacity building, and research to secure the long-term sustainability of Ghana’s marine ecosystem.
Norway Reaffirms Its Support
Ambassador Kvistad reaffirmed Norway’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s efforts in sustainable ocean governance, noting that both countries share a strong vision for environmental stewardship and community empowerment.
“Norway believes that protecting marine resources is not only an environmental obligation but also a pathway to shared prosperity,” he said.
He pledged his country’s continued technical and financial support for Ghana’s fisheries modernization agenda, including initiatives on ocean data, climate-smart aquaculture, and regional collaboration to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
Building a Future Where Oceans Sustain Communities
The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their shared commitment to promoting a resilient, equitable, and inclusive fisheries sector — one that sustains both livelihoods and the environment.
As Ghana works toward achieving SDG 14: Life Below Water, the renewed partnership with Norway sends a powerful message: that sustainable fisheries are not just a policy goal, but a moral responsibility — one that demands collective action from governments, industry players, and coastal communities alike.
