In response to Ghana declaring its first marine protected area (MPA), Steve Trent, CEO and Founder of the Environmental Justice Foundation, said:
“EJF applauds and congratulates the Honourable Emelia Arthur, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, for her outstanding leadership in delivering Ghana’s first Marine Protected Area (MPA). This achievement, secured through the dynamic leadership of Minister Arthur alongside the many contributions of the leading Ghanaian NGO, Hen Mpoano, will help underwrite the health and benefits of Ghana’s marine natural resources for years to come.
This MPA declaration is a defining moment for Ghana. Its fisheries are under severe pressure, and the coastal communities that depend on them cannot wait. A well-resourced, well-enforced protected area will safeguard vital ecosystems and help secure the livelihoods and food security of millions of Ghanaians for generations to come.
Ghana is providing the leadership, in action, showing a global audience what positive, community-led marine governance looks like. EJF is happy to join Hen Mpoano and Minister Arthur in celebrating this historic milestone, while applauding their achievement. We look forward to seeing the lasting benefits for Ghana’s marine ecological security, its economy and its people.”
ENDS
Notes to editors
About EJF
Our work to secure environmental justice aims to protect our global climate, ocean, forests, wetlands, wildlife and defend the fundamental human right to a secure natural environment, recognising that all other rights are contingent on this. EJF works internationally to inform policy and drive systemic, durable reforms to protect our environment and defend human rights. We investigate and expose abuses and support environmental defenders, Indigenous peoples, communities, and independent journalists on the frontlines of environmental injustice. Our campaigns aim to secure peaceful, equitable and sustainable futures. Our investigators, researchers, filmmakers, and campaigners work with grassroots partners and environmental defenders across the globe. For more information or to organise an interview with one of our team, please contact [email protected].
The Honourable Emelia Arthur, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, speaks at an event to launch Ghana’s first marine protected area. Image credit: Hen Mpoano
