Ghana inaugurates National Multi-Stakeholder Group (MSG) for fisheries transparency
The Fisheries Transparency Initiative’s (FiTI) International Secretariat has supported the Republic of Ghana to establish and inaugurate a National Multi-Stakeholder Group (MSG) to facilitate the effective implementation of the FiTI in Ghana. The inauguration ceremony took place as part of a special event at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra on 22 July 2025. The event was attended by senior members of the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture including the Honourable Minister Emelia Arthur and members of the Fisheries Commission including the Deputy Executive Director Eric Cobbinah.
The establishment and inauguration of the National MSG is a key milestone in Ghana’s FiTI implementation process following the country’s public commitment to implement the FiTI, the designation of a FiTI Lead Ministry and the designation of a FiTI National Lead. The 15-member National MSG comprises members from government institutions, civil society organizations and private sector businesses and fisheries associations. With the establishment of the National MSG, Ghana can move one step further towards becoming a FiTI Candidate country.
The Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture demonstrated the political will, commitment and support for the successful implementation of the FiTI by Ghana, and the work of the National MSG in particular, in her keynote address by emphasizing the important role that transparency plays in promoting responsible fisheries management, combatting illegal fishing activities and safeguarding the livelihoods of vulnerable small-scale fishers.
The Minister described the role of the National MSG as “very important” in supporting fisheries governance in Ghana and asked the members perform their functions with dedication and impartiality for the development of Ghana. She asked for participation, collaboration and support from all stakeholders including development partners, civil society organizations and industry players to improve fisheries law enforcement in Ghana.
The Deputy Executive Director of the Fisheries Commission, Eric Cobbinah, facilitated the formal inauguration of the National MSG and encouraged members to play their roles effectively to enhance transparency in Ghana’s marine fisheries management. The meeting covered the purpose for the establishment of the National MSG, the composition of the National MSG and the appointment of a Chair and potential Observers.
During the meeting participants also discussed the major tasks to be performed by the National MSG to enhance the credibility and data quality of national fisheries information, recommend transparency improvements to government and monitor their implementation, and monitor compliance of national efforts against the FiTI Standard.
Stakeholders also shared opportunities for more effective implementation, potential challenges and lessons learned from the implementation of similar initiatives such as the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI). National MSG members reminded themselves to play their roles effectively to ensure that they achieve an impact on sustainable marine fisheries management.
