Fishermen in Gomoa Fetteh in the Gomoa East District of the Central Region have identified light fishing and pair trawling as the main illegal practices depleting fish stocks in the sea.

They claim that fish species in Ghana are experiencing severe depletion, particularly small pelagics such as sardinella and herrings.

Speaking to Oyerepa and Promise News, the fishermen said their businesses are collapsing because they no longer get enough catch when they go to sea.

Kojo Baah, a fisherman at Gomoa Fetteh, accused some high-profile individuals, including politicians, of owning the equipment used for light fishing and pair trawling, which he believes is why authorities have struggled to stop the practice.

Another fisherman, Kwesi Nyamekye, urged the government to take decisive steps to end pair trawling and light fishing in order to protect marine resources.

Nana Ayitey also disclosed that due to light fishing practices, some fish species such as anchovies, locally known as “Keta School Boys,” have virtually disappeared.

Mr Kofi Abbew, an Executive Member of the Gomoa Fetteh Fishermen Association, blamed fellow fishermen for the depletion of fish stocks, noting that many are engaged in illegal light fishing.

Fishmongers in Gomoa Fetteh, Efua Cecelia and Esther Botchey, said their businesses are also suffering because they are unable to get enough fish from fishermen due to the declining stocks.

Based on concerns raised by both fishermen and fishmongers, the 30×30 initiative—which aims to conserve at least 30% of the world’s terrestrial, inland water, and marine habitats by 2030 to combat biodiversity loss and climate change—could be undermined if urgent action is not taken to curb illegal fishing practices.

When contacted, Emmanuel Dovlo, the Central Regional Director of the Fisheries Commission, said measures have already been introduced to tackle light fishing and pair trawling in Ghana.

These include the establishment of Landing Beach Enforcement Committees (LaBECs) at key landing sites to monitor and report illegal activities.

He added that the Commission is collaborating with security agencies to strengthen enforcement and respond to reported cases.

Mr Dovlo further noted that regular sensitisation and awareness campaigns are being conducted at landing beaches to educate fishermen on the dangers and illegality of light fishing.

The Commission is also engaging chief fishermen and traditional authorities to promote compliance at the community level and support enforcement efforts.