Women drive Ghana's fisheries value chain - Fisheries Minister

The Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Emelia Arthur, has stressed the important role women play in Ghana’s fisheries sector, adding that their contributions must be recognised and strengthened through deliberate policy interventions.

Delivering the keynote address at the International Women’s Day Breakfast Meeting organised by Women in Aviation and the Ladies Club of Ghana Airports Company Limited on March 7, 2026, Arthur noted that although aviation and fisheries appear to be different sectors, they share a common challenge, both have historically been dominated by men despite the significant roles played by women.

According to her, women’s contributions in both sectors have often remained invisible, undervalued, and unsupported due to longstanding structural inequalities that limit their advancement.

“In both aviation and fisheries, women play indispensable roles that are too often invisible and undervalued,” she said, adding that addressing these inequalities is key to building stronger and more inclusive industries.

Fisheries Minister pledges stronger support for women in Ghana's blue economy

The minister explained that in Ghana, women constitute more than 80 percent of the workforce involved in fish processing and trading. Many also finance fishing expeditions, sustain livelihoods within fishing communities, and contribute significantly to national food security.

Despite this, she said their efforts have received limited recognition over time.

She indicated that her ministry has made gender inclusion a key priority in its policies and programmes.

Arthur added that the ministry continues to implement interventions aimed at improving women’s working conditions and expanding access to modern technologies to better equip them.

“These investments are already yielding tangible results such as improved product quality, increased household incomes, and stronger sustainability outcomes across the fisheries sector. The lesson is clear, when you invest in women, the returns benefit everyone,” she added.

SP/MA

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