The European Union has pledged €59 million to support West Africa's efforts to protect its oceans, strengthen marine governance, and promote sustainable use of coastal resources. This substantial funding, provided under the West Africa Sustainable Ocean Programme (WASOP), will assist 13 countries in the region. These nations face significant threats including declining fish stocks, rampant illegal fishing, widespread pollution, and the escalating impacts of climate change.
The announcement was made in Accra during a regional workshop focused on Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs). The workshop also discussed strategies to track progress towards the global biodiversity target of conserving at least 30 percent of land and ocean areas by 2030. This investment underscores the EU's commitment to improving ocean governance, fostering a sustainable blue economy, and building resilience within coastal communities across West Africa.
This initiative aligns with Ghana's broader economic and environmental goals, where the fisheries sector is crucial for livelihoods and food security. Fish remains a major source of protein for Ghanaians, and the industry supports thousands of jobs while contributing significantly to the national economy. Beyond fisheries, the ocean underpins various economic activities, including salt production, maritime transportation, and other coastal industries. Protecting these marine resources is therefore vital for Ghana's sustained economic development and public health.
Paulina Rozycka, Head of Infrastructure and Sustainable Development at the EU Delegation to Ghana, stated that the investment demonstrates the EU’s commitment. She emphasized the importance of improving ocean governance, supporting a sustainable blue economy, and building resilience among coastal communities. A major component of the programme, with a budget of €17 million, will be implemented by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and is dedicated to protecting and restoring marine and coastal ecosystems.
The success of this programme hinges on practical interventions, stronger partnerships, and measurable progress in protecting marine ecosystems. Decision-makers and regional bodies will closely monitor the implementation of conservation guidelines and the advancement of proposed transboundary initiatives. For Ghana and other coastal countries in West Africa, the immediate challenge is to translate these financial commitments into tangible actions. This will ensure the ocean continues to support livelihoods, economies, and biodiversity for future generations.
Dr. Afisah Zakariah, Chief Director at the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, stressed the critical need for stronger regional cooperation. She noted that environmental pressures often cross national boundaries, making isolated efforts ineffective. The workshop provides a vital platform for West African countries to share experiences, develop practical solutions, and strengthen collaboration in conserving marine resources. Protecting marine resources is critical for Ghana, where fish remains a major source of protein and the fisheries sector provides livelihoods for thousands of people while contributing to the economy.
The EU also commended Ghana’s establishment of the Greater Cape Three Points Marine Protected Area. They described it as an important step towards restoring fish populations and preserving marine biodiversity. However, stakeholders warned that significant challenges persist, including illegal fishing which continues to undermine conservation efforts. Pollution and environmental impacts from activities such as gold mining pose additional threats to coastal ecosystems, demanding comprehensive and collaborative solutions.