Ministry bans importation of ornamental fishes and tilapia species

The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development has banned the importation of all ornamental fishes and Tilapia Species( live or dead) including gametes-eggs and milt into the country from July 1 to December 31 this year.

A statement signed by Professor Francis K.E. Nunoo, Acting Chief Director of the Ministry said the ban was one of the swift measures being taken by the Ministry to help prevent and control an emerging Tilapia Lake virus that had no known treatment modes.

The statement said there was a Tilapia lake virus which was newly emerging with significant mortalities in farmed tilapia and the Ministry’s attention had been drawn to the fact that cases had been reported across African, Asia and South America.

According to the statement, the virus represented a huge risk to the global tilapia industry.

“This means all countries should be vigilant and act quickly to investigate cases of mortalities in farms,” the statement said. It further entreated consumers and stakeholder to report any issues arising and relating the issue to the Ministry.

“The Ministry will follow up with capacity building and awareness creation programmes at different levels to farmers, hatchery operators, extension officers, consumers and the public.”

It further appealed to the public to support the implementation of simple farm level bio-security programmes.