The Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Mavis Hawa Koomson, has disclosed that the government has completed 50 landing beaches equipped with premix fuel automation centres.
She pointed out, however, that some of these centres are not yet operational due to the absence of electricity but assured that the Ministry is addressing the lack of power supply to these facilities by providing generators.
According to her, the necessary adjustments will be made to make the facilities ready soon.
The minister disclosed these when she appeared before the Government Assurances Committee’s public sitting on Tuesday to explain what the Ministry has done so far to fulfil several pledges the Minister gave on the floor of Parliament during question time.
She detailed significant advancements in government efforts to support the fisheries sector and enhance fuel management through automation systems across the country.
Hon. Hawa Koomson indicated that an additional 150 landing beaches with automated fuel centres are currently at various stages of completion and hopefully, they will become operational by September to bring the total number to 200.
She said, “The contractor and the consultant have given me assurance that by September, the remaining 150 will be completed,” Koomson stated.
She underscored the benefits of these automation centres in combating fuel mismanagement.
“Gone are the days when people used to divert their premix fuel. Now, with the automation system, you simply slot your card and get your quota. This ensures fairness and prevents exploitation,” the Minister explained.
Regarding support for fish farmers, Minister Koomson underscored several government initiatives aimed at bolstering the sector, particularly in response to challenges such as feed availability.
“Last year, we provided some relief and are now looking at supplying fingerlings and fish feed to help them continue their work,” she noted.
She also acknowledged the collaborative efforts with the Ministry of Agriculture to support both crop and fish farmers financially, especially in regions affected by spillage.
According to her, last year the Ministry alone needed about US$80 million to support these farmers.
“We are committed to ensuring that they receive the necessary support to thrive,” Hawa Koomson assured
The Minister expressed her anticipation to commission new automation sites at Yeji and Akati by the end of May, stressing the significance of these initiatives to the local communities.
“These two areas are so dear to my heart. I know the population there and the impact these facilities will have on their ability to do business efficiently and fairly,” she stressed.
The Minister noted that the progress in the fisheries sector and the advancement of fuel management systems demonstrate the government’s commitment to fostering sustainable practices and supporting local communities through technological enhancements.