RESEARCH

PRELIMINARY STUDIES ON GALAMSEY AND FISHERIES RESOURCES IN GHANA

Fisheries Statistics

Total Fish Production & Demand: 420,000–600,000 metric tons of fish annually. Demand exceeds 1 million metric tons.
Decline in Marine Fish Stock: Overfishing and illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing have led to a 40% decline in fish stocks over the last two decades.
Inland Fisheries Contribution: Volta Lake and other inland water bodies contribute around 20% of Ghana’s total fish production.

Pollution Levels

Water Pollution from Mining (Galamsey): Illegal mining has led to high mercury and heavy metal contamination in major rivers like Pra, Offin, Ankobra, and Tano.
Plastic Pollution: Ghana generates over 1 million tons of plastic waste annually, with less than 5% being recycled. Coastal and inland waters are heavily polluted with plastic waste.
Oil Spills & Industrial Waste: Offshore oil production has contributed to periodic oil spills and chemical contamination.

Climate Impact

Rising Sea Levels: Coastal areas such as Ada, Keta, and Axim are experiencing severe erosion, with 2–4 meters of land lost annually.
Temperature Increases: Ghana’s average temperature has increased by 1°C since 1960, affecting marine and inland water ecosystems.
Extreme Weather Events: Increasing floods and droughts are disrupting agriculture, fisheries, and water availability.