The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has given fresh hope to the fishing community in Shama, with promises of key infrastructural and social improvements if the party returns to power in the 2024 elections.
Dr. Bernadette Hoffman, the team lead of Coastal and Inland Fishing Project for John Mahama’s campaign secretariat has assured fisherfolks that the next NDC government will construct a modern fishing harbour and establish a fish processing factory in the district.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement forum in Shama, Mrs. Hoffman emphasized the NDC’s commitment to uplifting the fishing sector and addressing the challenges faced by coastal communities.
“A future NDC government is determined to improve the livelihoods of those in the fishing industry,” she stated. “This is why we plan to invest significantly in infrastructure and resources that will benefit the people of Shama and beyond.”
For years, residents along the coastline of the Shama District have endured the threat of tidal waves and the lack of proper facilities to dock their boats. Mrs. Hoffman assured the community that the proposed fishing harbour would provide relief, addressing long-standing concerns about safety and accessibility.
In addition to the harbour and processing plant, Mrs. Hoffman revealed the NDC’s plans to tackle sanitation issues along the coast, particularly the prevalent problem of open defecation.
“Open defecation has become rampant along the coastline. We used to have sanitary inspectors ensuring cleanliness, but that system was dismantled when the NDC left office. We intend to restore and strengthen the inspectors’ work to curb this issue,” she said.
Moreover, Dr. Hoffman announced the party’s intent to implement a pension scheme for fisherfolk, providing them with financial security in their later years.
“This policy will ensure that those who have spent their lives working in the fishing sector can retire with dignity and security,” she added.
The forum allowed participants to voice their concerns and provide feedback. Adwoa Saah, a fishmonger in Shama, commended the NDC’s proposed initiatives but urged the government to make premix fuel more accessible at discounted prices, noting that the rising cost of fuel has contributed to the soaring prices of fish.
As the 2024 elections approach, the NDC’s promises for the Shama District have sparked optimism among many in the local fishing community, who are hopeful for much-needed changes in the sector.
Source: 3news.com
