The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture is exploring collaboration with the Women in Aquatic Science and Management Network (WASMaN) to strengthen women’s participation and visibility in Ghana’s fisheries sector.
The discussions took place on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, when a delegation from WASMaN, led by its President, Dr Alberta Sagoe, engaged the Ministry to introduce the network and identify areas for collaboration.
Dr Sagoe said WASMaN was established to increase women’s participation in aquatic science and management by connecting practitioners, supporting research and mentorship, and bringing evidence into policy discussions.
She said the network’s work covers fisheries, aquaculture, freshwater and marine science, coastal management, conservation and development.
Dr Sagoe also highlighted initiatives including the network’s Research Spotlight, which allows members to share their research through webinars and articles, as well as its Knowledge Bites initiative, which provides concise information on issues linking science and management.
She said WASMaN was also planning mentorship and capacity-building programmes for members and other stakeholders.
According to Dr Sagoe, the network is currently self-funded but is seeking financial support to expand its programmes, particularly community engagement activities.
She said several funding proposals had been submitted to support the network’s activities.
The Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Emelia Arthur, welcomed the initiative and expressed interest in exploring areas where the Ministry could collaborate with WASMaN to support women in the sector.
The discussions identified research, mentorship and capacity strengthening as some of the areas where the two institutions could collaborate to improve women’s contribution and visibility in Ghana’s fisheries sector.
