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Ghanaian fishermen in Côte d’Ivoire are appealing for a dedicated ambassador well-versed in fisheries to address the pressing challenges they face while working in the West African country.
The fishing community, which forms a significant portion of the estimated 3 million Ghanaians living in Côte d’Ivoire, is currently grappling with maltreatment, harassment, and extortion by Ivorian security forces.
They are seeking an ambassador who will understand their struggles and advocate for their rights.
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According to the fishermen, around 80% of Ghanaian expatriates in Côte d’Ivoire rely on the fishing industry for their livelihood.
However, their working conditions have become increasingly difficult, with the seizure of their catches by Ivorian authorities, frequent harassment, and demands for bribes. These issues are compounded by a lack of support from the Ghanaian embassy, which they claim has failed to address their concerns effectively.
One fisherman recounted how, after returning from fishing expeditions, they are often stopped by the police, who demand to see their documents and frequently take a portion of their catch.
Despite having the necessary permits and paying required fees, the fishermen claim that their efforts are met with exploitation, leaving them vulnerable to financial losses and legal uncertainty.
They also face challenges in recruiting sailors from Ghana due to the unsafe working conditions, where their earnings are frequently taken by Ivorian security officers.
The fishermen’s grievances extend beyond harassment, as they also highlighted the impact of synchronising the fishing closure dates between Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire.
The previous arrangement, where Ghanaian fishermen could operate in Ivorian waters during Ghana’s closed season, was disrupted after a meeting between Ghana’s former Minister of Fisheries, Hawa Koomson, and the Ivorian government. The new simultaneous closure dates have made it even more challenging for them to sustain their livelihoods.
Responding to these concerns, Speaker of Parliament Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin assured the community that he would escalate their grievances to the new Minister of Fisheries and the President.
Bagbin emphasised the importance of fishing to the Ghanaian community in Côte d’Ivoire and pledged to work with the Ivorian Parliament to find a solution.
“I appreciate you bringing this issue to my attention, and I’ll definitely escalate it to the new minister and the president,” said Bagbin. “Our community heavily relies on fishing, with a staggering 80% of Ghanaian residents here engaged in the industry. It’s crucial that we don’t have a simultaneous closure of fishing activities, as it would have severe consequences for our people.”
The Speaker expressed confidence that collaboration between the two governments would lead to positive outcomes. “If the two governments work together, we can effectively resolve this issue. As one people, sharing a common heritage, our collaboration will yield positive results.”
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