NAFAG calls for immediate revocation of offshore gold exploration licence amid fishing rights row

The National Fisheries Association of Ghana (NAFAG) has escalated its opposition to deep-sea mining activities, formally demanding the complete cancellation of an offshore reconnaissance licence awarded to Gold Coast GRC Ghana Ltd for gold exploration operations on Ghana's shallow continental shelf.

The demand signals growing tension between Ghana's fishing sector and emerging marine resource extraction plans. NAFAG and its member organisations argue that authorising offshore gold exploration poses significant risks to established fishing livelihoods and marine ecosystems that underpin the country's food security and export revenues.

The fishing-mining conflict

Ghana's shallow continental shelf has historically been the domain of both artisanal and industrial fishing operations, generating substantial employment and foreign exchange for the nation. The introduction of offshore gold reconnaissance activities introduces competing claims on the same maritime space.

NAFAG's opposition reflects wider concerns within Ghana's fisheries sector about the potential environmental and economic consequences of deep-sea mining. The association argues that reconnaissance activities, though exploratory in nature, represent a stepping stone toward full-scale extraction that could disturb marine habitats, disrupt fish stocks, and undermine the viability of existing fishing operations.

The shallow waters off Ghana's coast are particularly productive fishing grounds. Any disruption to these areas would likely impact thousands of small-scale fishers whose livelihoods depend on sustainable access to marine resources.

Why it matters for Ghana

This dispute sits at the intersection of two competing development strategies for Ghana's maritime economy. The government has sought to diversify revenue streams beyond traditional sectors like cocoa and oil, viewing offshore mineral exploration as a potential growth driver. Conversely, the fisheries sector—which employs hundreds of thousands directly and millions indirectly—views such activities as threats to established income and food security.

Ghana's fishing industry contributes significantly to national GDP, employs over 2 million people directly and indirectly, and supplies essential protein to the population. Any disruption risks pushing vulnerable communities deeper into poverty while also affecting Ghana's ability to meet regional food demands.

The outcome of this dispute will likely set precedents for how Ghana balances competing maritime interests. The decision will reveal whether the government prioritises mineral exploration revenue or protects established fishing economies. It could also influence how other West African nations manage similar tensions between extraction industries and fishing rights.

Next steps

NAFAG's formal demand for cancellation now places the ball in the court of Ghana's regulatory and ministerial authorities responsible for marine resource management. The Association's call carries weight given the sector's economic importance and NAFAG's standing as the primary voice of Ghana's fisheries interests.

Stakeholders will likely await clarification from the Ministry responsible for Fisheries and relevant maritime authorities on how they intend to respond to NAFAG's demands and whether consultation processes with fishing communities preceded the licence award.