Wisdom Akpalu, Director of EfD Ghana, has been appointed Chairperson of the Governing Council of the Fisheries Commission of Ghana. The appointment places him at the helm of the 11-member council comprising key stakeholders from Ghana’s fisheries sector. The Governing Council is responsible for steering the strategic direction of the Fisheries Commission, the state agency mandated to regulate and manage the country’s valuable marine and inland fisheries resources.
"This is both a responsibility and an opportunity to continue working collaboratively with all stakeholders to protect our fisheries resources for current and future generations," said Wisdom Akpalu, expressing appreciation for the trust reposed in him and reaffirming his commitment to advancing sustainable fisheries in Ghana.
Provides a strong platform for policy impact
This appointment is a testament to his extensive contributions to research, advocacy, and policy development in Ghana’s fisheries sector. As a renowned resource economist specializing in fisheries, his research has significantly shaped national dialogue and influenced key policy decisions addressing critical issues in the management of Ghana’s marine resources.
His work has been instrumental in combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, improving fisheries governance frameworks, and promoting sustainable livelihoods for coastal and inland fishing communities. This new role will provide a strong platform to continue his work for a sustainable fishing industry.
In 2023, Wisdom Akpalu received the prestigious EfD Impact Award, recognizing his outstanding efforts in bridging the gap between research and policy. The award highlighted his impactful engagement with policymakers, fisherfolk, civil society, and the media to advocate for reforms and stronger enforcement mechanisms in the fisheries sector.
Vital role of Ghana’s Fisheries Commission
Wisdom Akpalu’s appointment comes at a time when the country’s fisheries sector continues to face serious challenges such as overfishing, illegal practices, and the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems.
The Ghana Fisheries Commission plays a central role in national development and food security, providing expert advice for a sector that provides livelihoods for over 10% of the population and supplies approximately 60% of the animal protein consumed in Ghana. The Commission’s work is therefore pivotal to both economic stability and nutritional well-being.
As Chairperson of the Governing Council, he will lead efforts to develop and implement evidence-based policies that promote the sustainable management of Ghana’s fisheries resources.
This appointment represents a significant step toward strengthening evidence-based policy implementation and promoting the long-term sustainability of Ghana’s fisheries sector.
By Vicentia Quartey