2025 Fisheries and Aquaculture Legislation Endorsed by President Mahama

In a major development for Ghana’s fisheries sector, President John Dramani Mahama has signed into law the Fisheries and Aquaculture Bill, 2025, now officially known as the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, 2025 (Act 1146). This milestone marks a new chapter in the sustainable management and regulation of the country’s marine and aquatic resources.

The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development announced the presidential assent in a statement issued to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), describing the Act as a groundbreaking reform aimed at transforming the sector to meet both national and international expectations.

According to the Ministry, the legislation, which was passed by Parliament in July 2025, introduces far-reaching changes designed to promote sustainability, improve compliance, protect marine biodiversity, and enhance the livelihoods of individuals—especially small-scale and artisanal fishers who depend on the sector for survival.

One of the central pillars of the new law is the establishment of an Independent Fisheries Commission, a fully autonomous regulatory body mandated to oversee the development, conservation, and responsible use of Ghana’s fisheries and aquaculture resources. The creation of this body is intended to remove political interference and ensure decisions are based on science, transparency, and long-term sustainability.

Act 1146 also significantly strengthens Ghana’s legal and institutional framework by aligning domestic fisheries management with international best practices. This strategic alignment enhances the country’s credibility and improves access to lucrative global markets by demonstrating commitment to responsible fishing practices and environmental stewardship.

Crucially, the Act safeguards Ghana’s seafood export industry, which currently generates over $425 million annually. By addressing regulatory loopholes and ensuring full compliance with trade and environmental standards, the law helps protect the country from potential trade sanctions that could result from illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing activities.

The legislation also introduces tougher enforcement measures and stricter penalties to combat illegal fishing practices. These measures are designed to support the recovery of overexploited fish stocks, preserve marine biodiversity, and ensure that Ghana’s marine ecosystems remain productive and healthy for generations to come.

Beyond environmental protection, the Act takes concrete steps to improve the welfare and working conditions of fisherfolk. It mandates higher standards for safety and security on fishing vessels and seeks to guarantee fair treatment for crew members, including those working under difficult and hazardous conditions. This provision is expected to bring dignity and protection to thousands of workers in the sector.

Another critical reform in the Act is the expansion of the Inshore Exclusive Zone (IEZ) from six to 12 nautical miles. This zone is now reserved for small-scale and artisanal fishers, thereby shielding critical breeding grounds from industrial trawlers. According to the Ministry, this move is expected to result in higher fish catches for local fishers, thereby supporting the livelihoods of over 2.7 million Ghanaians who depend directly or indirectly on the fisheries sector. It also strengthens food security across coastal communities and the nation at large.

The Ministry emphasized that the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, 2025 represents a comprehensive overhaul of existing legislation. It is designed not only to address the urgent environmental and economic challenges facing the sector but also to establish a strong foundation for long-term growth, resilience, and global competitiveness.

As Ghana looks toward a more sustainable future, the enactment of Act 1146 stands as a bold commitment by the government to protect marine resources, support fishing communities, and build a fisheries economy that works for both people and the planet.