The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development (MoFAD) has released the notification on implementing this years annual closed season in the Ghanaian fisheries sector, While Hen Mpoano commends the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development for maintaining the 2025 Closed Season beginning in July, 2025 as a vital step toward rebuilding Ghana’s marine ecosystems, we are deeply concerned by the decision to exempt marine artisanal fishers from this year’s closure.

Artisanal fishers represent a significant portion of Ghana’s fishing activity and contribute immensely to fishing pressure on marine resources. Exempting such a large stakeholder group undermines the overarching goal of conservation. The health of our fish stocks depends on the collective action of all segments of the fishing sector industrial, semi-industrial, and artisanal alike.

We believe that true sustainability requires inclusivity. Exemptions risk compromising the effectiveness of the measure and sending mixed signals at a time when unified efforts are needed most.

That said, the Closed Season remains an essential component of Ghana’s fisheries management strategy. According to the Ministry’s directive:

• Industrial trawlers will halt operations from July 1st to August 31st
• Semi-industrial inshore vessels will observe a July 1st to July 31st closure
• Artisanal fishers are exempted, but must continue observing Tuesday fishing holidays and refrain from illegal practices

As conservation partners, Hen Mpoano urges all fishers to comply with existing regulations and calls on the Ministry to reconsider policies that exclude major stakeholders from critical conservation efforts.

see full notification from MoFAD below;