The President of the National Canoe Fishermen Council, Nana Jojo Solomon, along with other fishing sector associations, has praised the government’s Alternative Livelihood Support Programme.
This innovative initiative empowers fishermen and fishmongers with start-up kits, including sewing machines, barbering toolkits, hair dryers among others.
These resources enable them to explore alternative income streams beyond fishing, promoting economic diversification and resilience.
The Alternative Livelihood Support Program is to reduce fishing communities’ dependence on fishing and promote sustainable livelihoods and economic growth. This initiative aims to support 8,000 fishers from selected coastal communities by equipping them with the necessary training and tools to establish businesses in diverse fields.
The program’s focus on providing start-up kits and training will help fishermen develop new skills and earn a steady income. Its objectives include reducing dependence on fishing and encouraging fishermen to explore alternative income sources.
With this the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development has partnered with the Ghana Fisheries Recovery Activity (GFRA) to implement this program. The program started with 550 fishers undergoing training in masonry, carpentry, dressmaking, hairdressing, electronics, and auto engineering.
Special aid to the Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister, Nana Owusu Acheampong, who represented the Minister at the handing-over ceremony of tools and equipment to the Western Regional Coordinating Council for distribution to beneficiaries, urged them to make good use of the tools.
“We’re well aware of the immense pressure on our seas. Studies show that our marine fisheries resources are overexploited. With too many people and activities impacting the sector, we must take action. One solution is the annual closed season”.
“However, this raises a crucial question: What happens to fisher folks during this period? Many have no alternative means of livelihood. To address this challenge, the government has introduced an Alternative Livelihood Support Program.”
“Through this initiative, fisher folks have received training in Hairdressing, Sewing and Barbering. Today, we’re presenting equipment to these beneficiaries. In total, the government has procured 35,000 sewing machines and 34,000 hair dryers.”
“These will be distributed to fisher folks in coastal communities nationwide, providing them with sustainable income opportunities beyond fishing.” He mentioned.
President of the National Canoe and Fishermen Council, Nana Jojo Solomon, expressed enthusiasm and optimism about the presentation
“This initiative is a game-changer for our fishing communities. The Alternative Livelihood Support Program will empower our fishermen to diversify their income streams, reduce their dependence on fishing, and promote sustainable livelihoods,” he said.
Receiving the items on behalf of the Western Regional Minister, Procurement Officer Angelina Baidoo promised to distribute them fairly among the beneficiaries.
“We’ve officially received the alternative livelihood support equipment and have a distribution list in place. Some items will be sent to various Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) for distribution to beneficiaries, while others will be distributed locally. We’ll ensure that all equipment reaches its intended recipients.”
“This initiative brings much-needed relief to our fisher folks, who face significant pressure on the sea. By providing alternative income streams, we’re empowering them to diversify their livelihoods and build a more sustainable future.” She stated.
By Ebenezer Atiemo
Source:
3news.com
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