Fishermen in Mumford, a town in the Central Region of Ghana, are calling on the government to expedite the completion of a fishing landing site that is currently under construction.
The fishermen are expressing concerns about the state of the fish landing harbor, which they believe is contributing to a high number of canoe accidents.
During an intervention by the Check Rite Foundation, a human empowerment NGO, the fishermen highlighted the need for basic safety practices to reduce accidents both at sea and on the beaches. Nana Kwamena Obo, a leader among the fishermen, lamented the frequency of accidents, with approximately 25 canoes destroyed, six deaths recorded, and several individuals receiving treatment as a result.
According to Nana Kwamena Obo, the ongoing project at Mumford, while a step in the right direction, requires reassessment to better support the fishermen in their work. He emphasized the importance of a functional harbor that meets their needs, as the current state of the project hinders the docking of canoes and poses safety risks.
The Chief Executive Officer of Check Rite Foundation, June Bonney, acknowledged the concerns raised by the fishermen and emphasized the urgent need for training on safety practices to mitigate risks. June Bonney highlighted the lack of CPR equipment during recent incidents, underscoring the importance of preparedness in preventing accidents.
The fishermen are hopeful for swift government intervention to address their concerns and improve the safety of their operations. They believe that timely action will help minimize accidents and enhance their overall fishing experience.
