August 15, 2024

 

Ghana urged to boost aquaculture with Israeli technology

Ghana has been urged to enhance its aquaculture sector by leveraging innovative technologies from Israel, Business & Financial Times reported.

 

This call was made by Aviel Avraham, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of Israel to Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, during a breakfast forum held on Tuesday, August 8, 2024, in Accra. The event was organised by the Economic and Trade Mission of the Embassy of Israel and the Chamber of Aquaculture-Ghana.

 

Themed "Enhancing Ghana's Aquaculture Sector: Leveraging on Innovative Technologies from Israel," the forum highlighted how such technologies could strengthen Ghana's food security, create employment, and stimulate economic growth.

 

Avraham acknowledged the significant role that Ghana's aquaculture sector plays in the national economy, contributing 3% to 5% of the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and providing numerous employment opportunities. However, he expressed concern over the declining fish supply, which is insufficient to meet the affordable protein needs of the country's growing population.

 

"The aquaculture industry in Ghana faces challenges, including limited knowledge of aquaculture investment, a lack of information on the economic performance of various fish farming systems, and an inadequate supply of quality feed and seed fish. These issues have long hindered the growth of the aquaculture sector," he stated.

 

Avraham emphasised that developing the country's aquaculture industry is critical to bridging the gap between fish demand and supply, and to producing a surplus for export. He also highlighted the strong ties between Ghana and Israel, noting that Israel's agricultural initiatives in Ghana focus on knowledge transfer, capacity building, and the introduction of advanced technologies.

 

"The relationship between Israel and Ghana has been one of mutual respect and cooperation, particularly in the field of agriculture. Through collaborations with the government, policymakers, and the private sector, we have shared best practices and technological advancements," he said.

 

Avraham highlighted Israel's ongoing 11-month agricultural training programme, which allows agricultural graduates from Ghana to study and work in Israel. This is one of many initiatives, including training programmes conducted by Israel's MASHAV Agriculture Training Centre in Shefayim, which have benefitted several Ghanaian professionals in the aquaculture sector.

 

The forum served as a platform for the introduction of innovative Israeli technologies aimed at enhancing aquaculture production in Ghana. It also promoted knowledge and experience sharing among stakeholders in the aquaculture sectors of both countries, encouraging partnerships to strengthen the industry.

 

Israel is globally recognised for its agricultural innovations, including turning arid deserts into fertile lands and leading in water-management technologies.

 

Currently, Ghana produces 132,000 metric tonnes of fish annually through aquaculture, with approximately 10% of its population depending on the sector for their livelihood.

 

-      Business & Financial Times