Emelia Arthur ( right)
The Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Emelia Arthur, on behalf of the Ministry and the Fisheries Commission, on Monday, May 12, 2026, presented a Provisional Licence to Gold Coast Mariculture Limited for what will become Ghana’s first-ever mariculture project.
The presentation took place at the Ministry and marks a major step in the country’s efforts to diversify its blue economy.
The Minister described the initiative as more than just a licence, calling it a symbol of innovation, opportunity, research, skills development, and a bold move towards diversifying Ghana’s blue economy in a sustainable and responsible manner.
The project will introduce the farming of high-value marine species, including cobia, red snapper, and pompano, under a carefully regulated framework that prioritises environmental protection, biosecurity, scientific oversight, and compliance with national laws and international standards.
According to the Minister, the project represents the beginning of a new frontier that can create jobs, build technical expertise, attract investment, strengthen food security, and reduce pressure on wild fish stocks.
She commended Gold Coast Mariculture Limited for its pioneering vision and acknowledged the contributions of the Fisheries Commission, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Ghana Maritime Authority, and other partners whose collaboration made the milestone possible.
Receiving the licence, the Chief Executive Officer of Gold Coast Mariculture Limited, Mr. Evans Kwadwo Danso, expressed appreciation to the Minister and pledged the company’s commitment to work diligently with his team to ensure the successful implementation of the project and make both the Ministry and the Commission proud.
He was accompanied by Mr. Fred Yaw Asem, Chief Operating Officer, and Mr. Lars Johnson, Chief Technical Officer.
The Provisional Licence reflects the government’s commitment to encouraging responsible private sector participation while ensuring sustainability remains at the centre of its development agenda.
The Ministry also assured close monitoring of the project to ensure its successful implementation for the benefit of Ghana and future generations.
