Dec. Polls: NDC Unveils Ambitious Plans for Fishing Communities in Shama
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) is revitalizing hope in Shama’s fishing community with promises of significant infrastructural and social enhancements if elected in the upcoming 2024 elections.
Dr. Bernadette Hoffman, leading the Coastal and Inland Fishing Project for John Mahama’s campaign, reassured local fisherfolks at a recent stakeholders’ forum that a future NDC government will prioritize the construction of a modern fishing harbour and a fish processing factory in the district.
“A future NDC government is determined to improve the livelihoods of those in the fishing industry,” Hoffman stated, underscoring the party’s commitment to addressing the challenges faced by coastal communities. She emphasized that investments in infrastructure and resources would benefit Shama and surrounding areas.
Residents of the Shama District have long dealt with the threats posed by tidal waves and a lack of adequate facilities for docking boats. Dr Bernadette Hoffman confirmed that the proposed fishing harbour would address these safety and accessibility concerns, providing much-needed relief.
In addition to the harbour, the NDC plans to tackle sanitation issues along the coast, particularly the increasing prevalence of open defecation. “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 remarked.
Furthermore, Hoffman announced plans for a pension scheme aimed at providing financial security for fisherfolk in their retirement 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 residents to express their concerns, commending the NDC’s initiatives while urging the government to enhance accessibility to premix fuel at discounted prices, as rising fuel costs have significantly impacted fish prices.
As the 2024 elections draw nearer, the NDC’s commitments to Shama have generated optimism among fishermen and women who are eager for transformative changes in the sector.
By: Portia Cudjoe | Western Region| Shama District
