June 2025 – May 2026 (1 year)
Implemented by: GFRA LBG, in collaboration with Hen Mpoano, A Rocha Ghana, WHRO, and with support from the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture (MoFA) and the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology (MEST)
To support the Government of Ghana in developing and endorsing a science- and community- informed National Plan of Action for Fisheries and Aquaculture and a marine protection strategy that together will define Ghana’s contribution to the 30×30 global target, reaffirm national leadership in ocean governance, and shape a coherent reform narrative ahead of the 2026 UN Ocean Conference (UNOC) in France.
SDGs 1 & 2 – by improving livelihoods and food systems in coastal communities. SDG 14 (Life Below Water) – through sustainable marine resource management. SDG 16 – through stronger institutions and cross-sectoral coordination. Ghana’s Blue Economy Strategy and biodiversity targets under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).
Support Ghana’s Engagement at UNOC 2025 to develop a marine and fisheries policy brief articulating Ghana’s reform story, aligning national messaging, supporting Ghana’s leadership in a regional ministerial side event at UNOC, and facilitating a joint West African communiqué on marine protection and fisheries reform.
Develop a National Marine Protection Strategy by conducting a comprehensive review of scientific data, spatial maps, and stakeholder inputs; organizing a national technical validation workshop with key agencies; convening a national meeting with fisherfolk associations, fish traders, processors, and traditional authorities; ensuring inter-ministerial alignment; and finalizing the strategy through a two-day national dialogue, securing consensus on targets and institutional mandates.
Advance a National Plan of Action for Fisheries and Aquaculture by facilitating working sessions with regulators, academia, civil society, and the private sector; convening a national conference to validate and secure ministerial endorsement; integrating marine protection tools; and disseminating the Plan and support its implementation across key actors.
