Accelerate action: Rights, equality and empowerment of women in the fishing communities

FOR decades, men have dominated the fishing sector, relegating women’s contribution to the shadows.  

However, a new era is emerging recognising the critical impact women have on the sector, particularly in financing fishing expeditions.

As the fishing sector navigates unprecedented challenges, women are stepping forward as leaders and change-makers.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we acknowledge the pivotal role women in the fishing sector play in driving sustainability to change the tides.

The unseen contribution of women in fishing

Women have always been an integral part of the fishing sector. Despite their significant contributions, women face numerous challenges including delayed payments of funds, lack of representation in decision-making and restrictive cultural norms.

Women work tirelessly behind the scenes, processing fish, managing finances and caring for families.

However, their efforts are often overlooked and it is time to change the status quo.

Enrich the fishing communities through women empowerment

Empowering women in the fishing sector is a triple win: it is a matter of rights and equality, and it also yields significant economic benefits.

When women control resources, they invest in their families and communities, driving improvements in health, education and economic status. 

In Ghana, women in fish processing have benefitted from training in record keeping and credit access from the Village Savings and Loans Association (VSLA) increasing their incomes and improving their overall well-being. Empowering women in the fishing sector is a smart investment in economic growth and development.

New era for women in the fishing industry

We acknowledge the critical role women play in the fishing sector and celebrate their contributions to creating a more sustainable and equitable future that will benefit all stakeholders.

As the fishing sector continues to evolve, women will remain at the forefront of this transformation, as we accelerate action to unlock the potentials of women in the fishing sector to drive positive change, promote equitable practices and support community development.

Ayekoo to all the women in the fishing sector as they work towards a future where the sector thrives for generations yet unborn, built on a foundation of sustainability and responsible practices.

• The writer is a Programme Manager FIDA - Ghana