Ghana Strengthens Global Fight Against Fisheries Crime

Ghana has once again demonstrated firm leadership in the global fight against fisheries-related crime as the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Hon Emelia Arthur, led the country’s delegation to the Blue Justice 2025 Conference held in Denmark from 2nd to 5th December 2025.

The high-level gathering, themed “United in Action Against Fisheries Crime,” brought together ministers, security agencies, maritime authorities and international partners to strengthen collective strategies against illegal activities that continue to threaten global ocean resources.

Addressing the global assembly, Hon Emelia Arthur reaffirmed Ghana’s unwavering commitment to building stronger alliances and enhancing maritime security systems. She stressed that fisheries crime has become increasingly sophisticated and transnational, requiring deeper international cooperation, improved information sharing and unified law enforcement action.

The Minister outlined six priority actions Ghana is advancing with its regional and global partners to protect the oceans and safeguard coastal livelihoods:

• Joint Patrols to intensify coordinated maritime operations across borders.

• Real-Time Intelligence Sharing to improve early detection of illegal fishing activities.

• Specialised Capacity Building to equip enforcement personnel with advanced skills and tools.

• Mutual Legal Assistance to streamline cross-border legal processes and strengthen prosecutions.

• Harmonised Penalties to ensure consistent and deterrent sanctions across countries.

• Sustained Political Commitment to drive long-term investment and leadership in maritime security.

Hon Arthur emphasised that protecting marine ecosystems is directly linked to the survival of millions of Ghanaians who depend on fishing for food security and income. She affirmed that Ghana will continue to strengthen collaboration through the Blue Justice Initiative and other global frameworks that support sustainable ocean governance.

Ghana’s active participation in Blue Justice 2025 signals the country’s determination to lead by example in addressing illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing. It further reinforces the nation’s call for stronger international unity to secure the future of the world’s oceans and the communities that rely on them.