The government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability in the distribution of proceeds from the sale of premix fuel, emphasizing that funds allocated to fishing communities must be used for their intended purposes.
Regulation 27(1) of the National Premix Fuel Committee Regulations, 2016 (L.I 2233), mandates that proceeds from the margins on premix fuel sales be distributed as follows:
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53% to the fishing community
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12% to the office of the chief fisherman or headman
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18% to other members of the committee
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10% to the secretary
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7% to the pump attendant
The Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Emelia Arthur, has emphasized the need for the National Premix Fuel Committee to ensure that the 53% earmarked for fishing communities is invested in developmental projects that benefit the entire community.
She noted that this approach aligns with the government’s broader vision of leveraging community-based resources for sustainable development.
Speaking on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama at the inauguration of an eleven-member board for the National Premix Fuel Committee on Thursday, April 3, Arthur urged the committee to conduct an audit of how the 53% community funds have been utilized over the years to ensure equity, accountability, and transparency.
The inauguration ceremony, held at the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture, saw the official swearing-in of the new board members tasked with overseeing premix fuel distribution in Ghana’s fishing communities. The board members include:
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Rockson-Nelson Etse Kwami Defeamekpor, Chairperson (Minister’s Nominee)
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Ekow Ebow Mensah, Secretary (Premix Administrator)
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Marian W.A. Kpahkpah (Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture)
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Stephen Langmatey Nadu (Ministry of Energy and Green Transition)
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Rosina Williams (Fisheries Commission)
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Mamaga Delight Esi Ametepe (National Inland and Canoe Fishermen Council)
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Richard Kofi Dadzie (Ghana National Canoe Fishermen Council)
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Jacob Kabore Tetteh Ageke (National Fisheries Association of Ghana)
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Dr. Riverson Oppong (Industry Coordinator, Association of Oil Marketing Companies)
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James Essoun (Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Representative)
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Julius Annang Ashitey (Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Representative)
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Josephine Yankson (Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Representative)
The National Premix Fuel Committee, established under L.I 2233, is responsible for facilitating the procurement and distribution of premix fuel, ensuring that resources reach those who depend on them for their livelihoods.
Arthur further noted that the ministry would leverage technology to automate and enforce a tracking system for premix fuel distribution, enhancing efficiency and eliminating irregularities.
“The government is committed to ensuring accountability in the distribution of proceeds from the margins on premix fuel sales in accordance with Section 27 of L.I 2233,” Arthur stated.
She urged all relevant stakeholders to ensure that the selection and composition of the Landing Beach Committees (LBCs) align with legal requirements, ensuring that the right individuals represent their communities and facilitate the efficient use of funds accrued from premix fuel sales.
Premix fuel remains a critical commodity for Ghana’s artisanal fishing sector, which supports the livelihoods of thousands in coastal and inland fishing communities.
The Ministry reaffirmed its dedication to ensuring effective distribution and availability, promoting sustainable fisheries management, and enhancing the socio-economic well-being of fishing communities nationwide.
