The Keta and Anloga Youth Parliaments, operating under the National Youth Authority in the Volta Region, have issued a stern caution to fishermen engaging in illegal fishing methods in the Keta Lagoon.
The youth parliaments emphasized that such practices not only cause irreparable damage to fish stocks but also pose health risks to humans.
Mr. Emmanuel Gameli Dovia, Chairman of the Publicity Committee, expressed concern over the reported use of poisonous chemicals and other harmful methods by some fishermen to trap new species of fish in the lagoon.
The statement highlighted the prevalence of destructive fishing practices involving light, dynamites, and chemicals, terming them as quick fixes for desperate fishers that result in significant harm to fish stock and potential health risks.
The identified areas, including Azizadzi, Kedzi, Vodza, Adzido, and Vui in the southern part of the lagoon within the Keta Municipality, were noted as hotspots for these illegal activities.
“We are, therefore, calling on those engaging in these illegal activities to stop with immediate effect,” the statement asserted.
In addition to the caution, the youth parliaments appealed to assembly members, Fisheries Commission officials, the Environmental Protection Agency, and other relevant authorities to investigate and bring the situation under control.
It was observed that the recent opening of sluice bridges and sandbars at Kedzi-Havedzi allowed the sea to flow into the lagoon.
This influx caused sea species such as crabs, shrimps, sardines, and others to breed in the lagoon.
The resulting desperation among fishermen to catch these new species has led to the adoption of harmful methods for harvesting, exacerbating the problem.