The Chief Fisherman of Upper Dixcove in the Western Region, Nana Kwaku Dadzie, has expressed concerns about the impact of power fluctuations, known as "dumsor", on the fishing industry. He noted that the outages are affecting cold stores that preserve fish for storage and commercial purposes, potentially jeopardizing the livelihoods of fishers and those in the fishing value chain. This issue was raised at a workshop organized by Friends of the Nation (FoN), a non-governmental organization.
The workshop, part of a project called "Protecting Our Zone, Securing Our Future," aimed to sensitize fishers at Upper and Lower Dixcove on recent developments in the marine sector. Nana Dadzie emphasized that fishing remains the economic backbone of the community but is facing severe challenges due to regular power cuts. He urged the Ministry of Energy, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), and the government to address the perennial problem urgently.
The impact of dumsor on the fishing industry is multifaceted. Cold stores, essential for preserving fish, are severely affected by the power outages. This not only affects the storage and commercialization of fish but also has a ripple effect on the entire fishing value chain. As a result, the livelihoods of fishers, fishmongers, and other stakeholders in the industry are at risk.
Fishers and fishmongers who spoke to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) painted a gloomy picture of how the outages are affecting their businesses. They mentioned that the situation has brought untold hardship, making it difficult for them to cater to their children in second and third-cycle institutions. The economic strain is evident, with many struggling to maintain their businesses.
The Chief Fisherman's concerns are echoed by other stakeholders in the industry. The persistent power outages have significant economic implications, not only for the individuals involved but also for the broader community. The fishing industry is a critical sector in Ghana's economy, and any challenges it faces can have far-reaching consequences.
The Ministry of Energy, ECG, and the government have been urged to take immediate action to address the issue of dumsor in the Western Region. The stakeholders are calling for a sustainable solution to the power outages to ensure the continuity of the fishing industry and the livelihoods that depend on it.
The situation in the Western Region highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges faced by the fishing industry. This includes investing in infrastructure, such as reliable power supply, to support the sector's growth and sustainability. By doing so, the government can help ensure the long-term viability of the industry and the well-being of those who depend on it.
Key points
- The fishing industry in Ghana's Western Region is severely impacted by power fluctuations, or "dumsor".
- The outages affect cold stores, fishers, and fishmongers, jeopardizing livelihoods and businesses.
- Stakeholders are urging the Ministry of Energy, ECG, and the government to address the issue urgently.
