Ghana has taken a decisive step toward protecting its marine resources as Cabinet gives the green light for the country’s first-ever Marine Protected Area (MPA) at Greater Cape Three Points in the Western Region.
The approval, announced by Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Emelia Arthur, at a press briefing in Accra, marks a new era in Ghana’s efforts to rebuild dwindling fish stocks and preserve marine biodiversity while supporting coastal livelihoods.
“The approval by the Cabinet of Ghana’s first Marine Protected Area marks a major step toward building a sustainable blue economy, which aims to protect marine life and fishing communities in diverse ways. Collaboration among various stakeholders and the government is necessary for the effective implementation of this initiative,” Mrs. Arthur said.
Spanning roughly 700 square kilometres, the protected zone will serve as a crucial breeding and nursery ground for sardinella and other key fish species.
It will also protect migratory routes for whales, dolphins, and nesting sea turtles that play an important role in maintaining ocean health.
The Minister explained that the initiative forms part of Ghana’s Blue Economy Strategy and aligns with global commitments under the UN Convention on Biological Diversity and Sustainable Development Goal 14, which focuses on life below water.
According to the Ministry, public awareness campaigns, stakeholder consultations, and mapping exercises will begin in the coming weeks to pave the way for full implementation.
