ECONOMICS


President commissions James Town Fish Harbour

In a historic moment for the coastal community of Jamestown, Accra, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has officially commissioned the long-awaited Jamestown Fishing Harbour with a call for stronger stakeholder collaboration to build a resilient fisheries sector capable of delivering prosperity to the people.

Date Created : 9/17/2024 12:00:00 AM : Story Author : Ghanadistricts.com

Speaking at the ceremony, the President emphasized the symbolic and practical importance of the new facility. "This moment is the culmination of years of effort and the realization of a long-held dream that began as far back as 1965. Promises were made, hopes were raised, but no substantial action was taken—until now. Today, we move beyond rhetoric to action,” he said.

 

He expressed his deep satisfaction in bringing this project to fruition. He recalled the day in December 2018 when he cut the sod for the project and the naysayers who doubted the port’s completion. "In October 2020, I returned to inspect the progress, and today, here we stand together as witnesses to the fulfilment of that commitment," he noted with pride.

 

The president further said the newly constructed fishing harbour is expected to transform the local economy, generating employment, improving the lives of fisherfolk, and boosting domestic fish production. He also highlighted the socio-economic significance of the project, stating, "This port is a symbol of hope, proof of the resilience and determination of our people, and a concrete manifestation of what we can achieve when we work together for the common good."

 

The harbour, which is equipped with a range of modern facilities, is designed to address some of the long-standing challenges faced by Ghana’s artisanal fishing sector. These include the safe launching and landing of canoes, improved fish handling, and enhanced storage capacities. Notable features of the port include a 200-capacity fish market, a 60-tonne ice-making plant, a 200-tonne cold store, and market stalls, among others. A daycare centre has also been included to support women traders, allowing them to conduct their business with peace of mind, knowing their children are safe.

 

"This harbour is not just a monument to progress; it is a vital lifeline for socio-economic empowerment, job creation, and improved livelihoods. We are investing in superior infrastructure to reduce post-catch losses, improve fish catches, and reduce our dependence on imported fish," President Akufo-Addo stated.

 

President Akufo-Addo extended his gratitude to the Ga Mantse, the chiefs, and the people of Jamestown for their unwavering faith in his government. He also acknowledged the support of the People’s Republic of China, particularly President Xi Jinping, for their contributions to the project. Additionally, the President commended Ambassador Edward Boateng and former High Commissioner Isaac Osei for their instrumental roles in bringing the project to life.

 

The Jamestown Fishing Harbour is a landmark achievement in President Akufo-Addo’s broader agenda of infrastructural development aimed at improving Ghana’s socio-economic landscape. As the people of Jamestown celebrate the fulfillment of this long-standing promise, the harbour stands as a beacon of hope, progress, and prosperity for the future.