Fish production in the Bono Region of Ghana has reached rock bottom, according to the Wenchi Zonal Director of the Fisheries Commission, Charlotte Ndah. The decline in fish production is largely attributed to illegal mining activities, also known as galamsey, around water bodies in the region.
Fishermen's Catches Plummet
Fishermen operating on the Bui Dam Reservoir in the Banda District have consistently complained of reduced fish catches. The chemicals used by the illegal miners have exterminated and driven the fish away, seriously affecting the waters. This is according to Mrs Ndah, who spoke to the media on the sidelines of a research project and stakeholders' engagement organised by the School of Natural Resources of the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) at Fiapre, near Sunyani.
Law Enforcement Key to Curbing Galamsey
Mrs Ndah believes that effective law enforcement is the surest means of curbing illegal mining and safeguarding water bodies. The Fisheries Commission's law enforcement unit is collaborating with stakeholders to control the activities and preserve the region's water resources. She explained that the Commission is working closely with the Environmental Protection Authority to address the issue.
Research and Partnerships for Sustainable Development
The University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) has reaffirmed its commitment to creating an enabling environment for research, innovation, and community engagement. In a speech read on his behalf, Professor Elvis Asare-Bediako, the Vice-Chancellor of the UENR, said the University would continue to invest in strengthening research capacity, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, and building strategic partnerships to advance knowledge and sustainable development. Professor Daniel Akoto Sarfo, the Dean of the School of Natural Resources, commended the University's continuous support for research, innovation, and academic excellence.
The Way Forward
The decline in fish production in the Bono Region is a cause for concern. It is essential that the government and relevant stakeholders take immediate action to address the issue of galamsey and protect the region's water resources. The Fisheries Commission and the Environmental Protection Authority must work together to implement effective measures to curb the activities and restore the region's fisheries to their former glory. The future of the fishing industry in the Bono Region depends on it.
Source: Joy Online
