Busua (W/R), April 15, – Ghana has officially designated its first Marine Protected Area (MPA) within the Greater Cape Three Points enclave of the Western Region, marking a major step in the country’s ocean conservation and fisheries management efforts.
The protected zone covers about 700 square kilometres of biologically rich marine waters across 21 coastal communities.
Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang formally announced the designation at Busua in the Ahanta West Municipality, describing it as a strategic intervention to protect marine ecosystems that support millions of livelihoods.
She said the initiative is grounded in both national policy and international ocean governance frameworks aimed at ensuring sustainable use of marine resources.
According to her, scientific data indicates a steady decline in fish stocks, a trend that threatens food security and the economic stability of coastal communities.
She explained that the Marine Protected Area is intended not as a total ban on fishing but as a regulated recovery zone to allow marine ecosystems to regenerate.
“We have taken a bold step to secure the future of our ocean. This measure is about restoring balance so that fish stocks can recover and sustain generations to come,” she said.
Prof Opoku-Agyemang assured affected communities that government would support alternative livelihoods and ensure their continued participation in managing the protected zone.
She added that the management model would allow controlled fishing while discouraging destructive practices and promoting sustainable harvesting methods.
The Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Emelia Arthur, described the declaration as a decisive move toward rebuilding Ghana’s fisheries sector and strengthening coastal resilience.
She said the policy aligns environmental conservation with economic development, ensuring that ocean resources are sustainably managed for job creation and long-term growth.
Mr Kofi Agbogah, Executive Director of Hen Mpoano, commended the initiative, noting that it reflected strong collaboration between government, traditional authorities, coastal communities, and development partners.
He called for continued investment in monitoring systems, data collection, and enforcement mechanisms to ensure the long-term success of the Marine Protected Area.
The declaration is expected to serve as a foundation for expanding marine conservation efforts along Ghana’s coastline in the coming years.
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