UNIVERSITY OF GHANA
DEPARTMENT OF MARINE AND FISHERIES SCIENCES
RESEARCH AREA: THE TRAWL FISHERIES SECTOR OF GHANA:
TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENT, MANAGEMENT, AND GOVERNANCE.
RESEARCH PROPOSAL SUBMITTED IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE
REQUIREMENT FOR THE DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
BY: ILLONA APPIAH (ID: 11005540)
20TH FEBRUARY 2025
Table of Contents
Abstract ........................................................................................................................................... 2
1.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................................... 3
1.2 Background of the Study .......................................................................................................... 4
1.3 Objectives of Study ................................................................................................................... 5
1.4 Research Questions ................................................................................................................... 6
1.5 Methodology: ............................................................................................................................ 6
1.5.1 Research Design................................................................................................................. 6
1.5.2 Data Collection Methods ................................................................................................... 6
1.5.3 Sampling Strategy .............................................................................................................. 7
1.5.4 Data Analysis ..................................................................................................................... 7
1.5.5 Ethical Considerations ..................................................................................................... 10
1.6 Application and Expected Results .......................................................................................... 10
1.6.1 Application ....................................................................................................................... 10
1.6.2 Expected Results .............................................................................................................. 12
1.7 Research Outcomes and Dissemination .................................................................................. 13
1.7.1 Research Outcome ........................................................................................................... 13
1.7.2 Dissemination Strategy .................................................................................................... 13
1.8 Organization of the Thesis ...................................................................................................... 15
1.9 Work Plan ................................................................................................................................ 16
1.10 Budget ................................................................................................................................... 17
References: .................................................................................................................................... 18
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Abstract
The trawl fisheries sector of Ghana plays a critical role in the country’s economy, contributing
significantly to employment, food security, and foreign exchange earnings. However, the sector
faces numerous challenges, including overfishing, illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU)
fishing activities, and outdated technological practices. This study examines the technological
advancements, management strategies, and governance structures within Ghana’s trawl fisheries
sector to assess their effectiveness in ensuring sustainable fisheries management. The research will
employ a mixed-methods approach, integrating qualitative and quantitative data collection
techniques, including stakeholder interviews, policy analysis, and fisheries catch data assessment.
The study will explore the extent to which technological innovations such as vessel monitoring
systems (VMS), electronic reporting, and advanced gear modifications have been adopted in
Ghana’s trawl fisheries and their impact on sustainability. Furthermore, it will critically assess the
current fisheries management policies, regulatory frameworks, and enforcement mechanisms in
place, identifying gaps that hinder compliance and sustainable practices. The governance structure
of the sector, including the role of governmental agencies, international bodies, and local fishing
communities, will be analyzed to determine how collaborative governance can enhance fisheries
sustainability.
The findings of this study will contribute to the existing body of knowledge on fisheries
management in West Africa and provide policy recommendations for enhancing the efficiency and
sustainability of Ghana’s trawl fisheries. Strengthening governance frameworks, adopting modern
technological solutions, and promoting community participation are key to addressing the pressing
challenges faced by the sector. The study’s implications extend to policymakers, fisheries
managers, and stakeholders within the broader maritime industry.
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1.1 Introduction
Fisheries play a vital role in the socio-economic development of coastal nations, providing
employment, livelihood, and a significant source of protein to millions of people worldwide (Béné
et al., 2016). Ghana’s trawl fisheries sector, which is a key component of the country’s marine
fishing industry, has evolved over the decades, shaped by technological advancements, policy
interventions, and governance structures (Finegold et al., 2010; Bannerman & Quartey, 2004;
Republic of Ghana, 2021).
Despite its contributions to economic growth and food security, the sector faces significant
challenges, including unsustainable fishing practices, poor regulatory enforcement, and the
overexploitation of marine resources (Akpalu et al., 2011). These challenges have raised concerns
about the long-term sustainability of the sector and the livelihoods dependent on it.
Technological advancements in trawl fisheries, such as the adoption of modern fishing gear, digital
monitoring tools, and electronic catch reporting systems, have the potential to improve efficiency
and sustainability (FAO, 2020). However, the extent to which these technologies have been
integrated into Ghana’s fisheries sector remains underexplored (Agbemabiese, 2024; Paes, 2022).
Additionally, ineffective governance and weak institutional frameworks continue to impede the
implementation of sustainable fisheries management strategies (Pauly & Zeller, 2016). This
research seeks to investigate the interplay between technological advancements, management
practices, and governance structures within Ghana’s trawl fisheries sector, with the aim of
identifying effective strategies for promoting sustainable fisheries management.
This study is significant as it will provide insights into how technological innovations can be
leveraged to address the challenges faced by Ghana’s trawl fisheries sector. Moreover, it will offer
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policy recommendations for improving fisheries governance and ensuring the long-term
sustainability of marine resources. By assessing the effectiveness of existing policies and
governance frameworks, the study will contribute to the broader discourse on sustainable fisheries
management in West Africa.
1.2 Background of the Study
Ghana's trawl fisheries sector has long been an essential contributor to the nation’s socio-economic
development, providing employment to thousands of fishers and supporting livelihoods in coastal
communities (Atta-Mills et al., 2004). However, over the past few decades, increased fishing
pressure, coupled with weak regulatory enforcement, has led to declining fish stocks and
environmental degradation (Finegold, 2009).
The introduction of modern fishing technologies, including vessel monitoring systems (VMS) and
gear modifications, has been proposed as a way to enhance efficiency and promote sustainable
fishing practices (Kwarteng et al., 2020). Despite these advancements, many fishers continue to
rely on outdated techniques, exacerbating the challenges of overfishing and IUU activities (FAO,
2020). In addition, the governance of the sector has been fraught with challenges, including
inadequate policy implementation, lack of stakeholder engagement, and poor enforcement
mechanisms (Nunoo et al., 2015).
Governance plays a crucial role in shaping the sustainability of fisheries management. Ghana has
implemented several policy frameworks, including the Fisheries Act 2002 (Act 625) and various
international agreements to regulate fishing activities (Mensah et al., 2006). However, enforcement
remains weak due to insufficient resources, corruption, and political influences. The absence of
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strong governance structures has allowed illegal foreign trawlers to exploit Ghana’s marine
resources, further straining fish stocks (Pauly et al., 2013).
This study seeks to examine the extent to which technological advancements have been integrated
into the trawl fisheries sector in Ghana, analyze the effectiveness of current fisheries management
strategies, and explore governance mechanisms to ensure long-term sustainability. By identifying
key challenges and opportunities, the research aims to contribute to policy recommendations that
promote responsible fisheries management, ensuring both ecological conservation and economic
viability.
1.3 Objectives of Study
The primary objective of this study is to assess the technological advancements, management
strategies, and governance structures within Ghana’s trawl fisheries sector. Specifically, the study
aims to:
1. Evaluate the impact of technological advancements on fishing efficiency, sustainability,
and compliance with regulatory frameworks.
2. Analyze the effectiveness of existing fisheries management policies in addressing issues
such as overfishing, illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, and resource
depletion.
3. Identify key challenges hindering the effective governance and sustainable management of
Ghana’s trawl fisheries.
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1.4 Research Questions
1. What technological advancements have been adopted in Ghana’s trawl fisheries sector, and
how have they impacted fishing efficiency and sustainability?
2. How effective are current management strategies in regulating and sustaining Ghana’s
trawl fisheries?
3. What are the major governance challenges affecting the trawl fisheries sector in Ghana?
1.5 Methodology:
1.5.1 Research Design
This study will adopt a mixed-methods research approach, incorporating both qualitative and
quantitative methods to provide a comprehensive analysis of the trawl fisheries sector in Ghana. A
mixed-methods design is suitable as it allows for triangulation, enhancing the validity and
reliability of findings (Creswell & Plano Clark, 2018).
1.5.2 Data Collection Methods
Primary Data Collection
1. Surveys and Questionnaires: Structured questionnaires will be distributed to trawl
fishers, industry stakeholders, and policymakers. The survey will focus on technological
advancements, fisheries management practices, and governance frameworks.
2. Interviews: Semi-structured interviews will be conducted with key stakeholders, including
officials from the Fisheries Commission of Ghana, representatives from fishing unions,
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and environmental groups. Interviews will provide in-depth insights into policy
effectiveness and challenges in governance.
3. Field Observations: Direct observations will be conducted at major landing sites and
processing facilities in Tema and Takoradi to assess the technological state of fishing
equipment and compliance with management regulations.
Secondary Data Collection
1. Review of Policy Documents and Reports: Government reports, international fisheries
agreements, and regulatory frameworks will be analyzed to understand governance
structures.
2. Analysis of Fisheries Statistics: Historical and current data from sources such as the
Ghana Statistical Service and the Fisheries Commission will be examined to assess trends
in trawl fisheries production and sustainability.
1.5.3 Sampling Strategy
A purposive sampling technique will be used to select respondents with significant experience in
the industrial and semi-industrial trawl fisheries sector. Additionally, random sampling will be
employed for fishers to ensure representativeness (Bryman, 2016).
1.5.4 Data Analysis
The data analysis for this study on the trawl fisheries sector of Ghana will employ a mixed-methods
approach, integrating both qualitative and quantitative techniques to ensure a comprehensive
understanding of technological advancements, management practices, and governance
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frameworks. The analysis will involve statistical modeling, thematic coding, and geospatial
analysis to examine trends, challenges, and policy implications in the sector.
i.
Quantitative Data Analysis
Quantitative data will be analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Primary
and secondary data sources, including vessel monitoring system (VMS) data, catch and effort
statistics, and financial records of trawl operators, will be collected and processed.
 Descriptive Statistics: Measures such as mean, median, standard deviation, and frequency
distributions will be computed to summarize key indicators, including total catch, vessel
efficiency, and financial performance.
 Time-Series Analysis: Historical data from the Fisheries Commission of Ghana and FAO
will be analyzed using time-series models (e.g., ARIMA) to assess trends in catch per unit
effort (CPUE), fleet capacity, and stock depletion over time (Pauly & Zeller, 2016).
 Regression Analysis: A multiple regression model will be developed to analyze the impact
of technological advancement, management practices, and governance structures on the
economic and environmental sustainability of Ghana’s trawl fisheries sector. The model
specification will be:
CPUE = β0 + β1iTechAdv + β2iMgmtPract + β3iGovernance + β4iEffort + ɛi
where:

CPUE (Catch per Unit Effort) represents fisheries productivity,

TechAdv denotes technological advancements (e.g., vessel improvements, gear
efficiency),
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
MgmtPract signifies management strategies (e.g., quota systems, closed seasons),

Governance captures governance effectiveness (e.g., regulatory enforcement,
stakeholder engagement),

Effort accounts for fishing intensity (e.g., number of trips, vessel size), and

ɛ is the error term.
This model will be estimated using Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression. Diagnostic tests,
including multicollinearity checks (Variance Inflation Factor), heteroskedasticity tests (BreuschPagan test), and model goodness-of-fit (R-squared, Adjusted R-squared), will be conducted to
ensure the robustness of the results (Asiedu et al., 2019).
Geospatial Analysis: GIS mapping will be used to assess spatial distribution patterns of trawling
activities, including fishing grounds and overlap with artisanal fishing zones, to identify potential
conflicts and sustainability concerns (Kolding et al., 2019).
ii. Qualitative Data Analysis
The qualitative dimension of the research will focus on stakeholder perspectives on governance
and management effectiveness. Data will be collected through semi-structured interviews and
focus group discussions with fishers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders.

Thematic Analysis: NVivo software will be used to code and categorize themes emerging
from interviews and policy documents. Themes will include compliance with regulations,
technological adaptation, and governance challenges (Jentoft et al., 2018).

Policy Analysis: Content analysis will be applied to fisheries management plans,
legislative documents, and international agreements to assess policy coherence and
alignment with sustainable development goals (SDGs) (FAO, 2022).
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
SWOT Analysis: A strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis
will be conducted to evaluate the governance framework and identify strategic
recommendations for improving sustainability in the trawl fisheries sector (Béné et al.,
2016).
iii.
Data Integration and Interpretation
The findings from quantitative and qualitative analyses will be triangulated to develop a holistic
understanding of the sector. Comparative analysis across different time periods and regions will
be conducted to identify best practices and areas requiring intervention. The results will inform
policy recommendations aimed at balancing economic viability with environmental
sustainability.
1.5.5 Ethical Considerations
Ethical approval will be sought from relevant institutional review boards. Informed consent will
be obtained from all participants, ensuring anonymity and confidentiality in data handling.
1.6 Application and Expected Results
1.6.1 Application
This research will explore the current state, challenges, and potential advancements in Ghana’s
trawl fisheries sector, focusing on technological innovations, effective management practices, and
governance structures. The findings from this research are expected to contribute in the following
ways:
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1. Technological Advancement:
o
Identify modern fishing technologies suitable for Ghana’s trawl fisheries to
enhance efficiency and sustainability.
o
Assess the feasibility of implementing digital monitoring systems such as vessel
tracking and electronic logbooks.
o
Evaluate the impact of gear modifications and bycatch reduction technologies to
improve ecological sustainability.
2. Management Improvement:
o
Analyze current fisheries management strategies, including stock assessment and
effort control, to propose evidence-based improvements.
o
Develop a framework for ecosystem-based fisheries management to enhance
biodiversity conservation while maximizing economic benefits.
o
Recommend co-management strategies that incorporate fisherfolk, policymakers,
and other stakeholders.
3. Governance and Policy Framework:
o
Examine the role of national and regional fisheries policies in regulating the trawl
sector.
o
Assess compliance with international conventions such as the United Nations
Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and Sustainable Development Goal
14.
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o
Propose governance reforms to address illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU)
fishing and improve enforcement mechanisms.
1.6.2 Expected Results
The research is expected to yield the following key outcomes:
1. Enhanced Technological Integration:
o
Adoption of efficient and environmentally friendly trawling technologies.
o
Increased use of electronic monitoring and data collection systems for improved
regulatory oversight.
2. Improved Management Strategies:
o
Development of adaptive management frameworks that align with Ghana’s unique
fisheries landscape.
o
Establishment of guidelines for sustainable trawl fisheries based on scientific
assessments.
3. Strengthened Governance and Policy Implementation:
o
Recommendations for policy amendments to enhance fisheries sustainability.
o
Increased compliance with international fisheries regulations.
o
Strengthening of enforcement mechanisms to curb IUU fishing activities.
These outcomes will contribute to the overall sustainability and economic viability of Ghana’s
trawl fisheries sector, ensuring long-term benefits for local fishing communities and national food
security.
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1.7 Research Outcomes and Dissemination
1.7.1 Research Outcome
This study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the trawl fisheries sector in Ghana by
examining technological advancements, management strategies, and governance frameworks. The
key research outcomes will include:
1. Technological Advancements: An assessment of the adoption and impact of modern
fishing technologies, including vessel monitoring systems (VMS), improved gear
technology, and digital tracking systems.
2. Management Strategies: An evaluation of the effectiveness of current fisheries
management practices, including stock assessment, catch limits, and enforcement
mechanisms.
3. Governance Framework: A critical review of policy instruments, regulatory structures,
and compliance enforcement within Ghana’s fisheries sector, including international
agreements and local governance frameworks.
The study will provide empirical insights and policy recommendations aimed at improving
fisheries governance, enhancing management strategies, and ensuring technological advancement
in compliance with international best practices.
1.7.2 Dissemination Strategy
The findings of this research will be disseminated through various academic and non-academic
channels to maximize impact and stakeholder engagement.
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1. Academic Publications: Research findings will be published in high-impact, peerreviewed journals such as Marine Policy, Fisheries Research, and Ocean & Coastal
Management to contribute to the broader scientific discourse on fisheries governance and
technological innovation.
2. Conference Presentations: The study will be presented at international and regional
conferences such as the World Fisheries Congress, the African Fisheries and Aquaculture
Conference, and the Ghana Fisheries Science Symposium to engage with scholars,
policymakers, and industry professionals.
3. Policy Briefs and Reports: Summaries of key findings will be compiled into policy briefs
and reports for governmental and non-governmental organizations such as the Ministry of
Fisheries and Aquaculture Development (MOFAD), the Food and Agriculture Organization
(FAO), and the Environmental Justice Foundation (EJF).
4. Workshops and Stakeholder Engagements: Interactive workshops and meetings will be
organized with stakeholders, including trawl fishers, regulatory bodies, and industry
representatives, to facilitate knowledge transfer and policy discussions.
5. Media Outreach: Press releases, articles, and interviews will be conducted with local and
international media outlets to enhance public awareness of the issues affecting Ghana’s
trawl fisheries sector.
6. Online Platforms and Open-Access Repositories: Research outputs will be made
available through online platforms such as ResearchGate, SSRN, and institutional
repositories to ensure wider accessibility and visibility.
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By implementing a multi-faceted dissemination strategy, this research seeks to bridge the gap
between academic inquiry and practical policymaking, fostering sustainable management and
governance of Ghana’s trawl fisheries sector.
1.8 Organization of the Thesis
This section outlines the structure and organization of the thesis. This dissertation is structured into
six main chapters, each addressing key aspects of the trawl fisheries sector in Ghana, with a focus
on technological advancement, management, and governance.
The first chapter will introduce the research topic, setting out the research objectives, the research
questions, and the significance of the study, laying the foundation for the subsequent analysis.
Additionally, the research methodology and the expected outcomes of the study will be briefly
outlined. Chapter two will present reviews of relevant literature on the trawl fisheries sector,
covering themes such as technological advancements in fishing, management frameworks, and
governance structures. It will also discuss theoretical and conceptual frameworks that underpin the
study.
The third chapter will outline the research methodology used in this study. This section will
describe the qualitative and quantitative research methods that will be employed to gather data on
technological advancements, management and governance impacts in the trawl fishing industry in
Ghana. It will include details on the data collection techniques (e.g., historical records, surveys,
interviews), the study’s geographical scope, and the data analysis methods used to address the
research questions. Ethical considerations and limitations of the study will also be discussed.
Chapter four will explore the technological innovations in Ghana's trawl fisheries sector, including
vessel modernization, gear improvements, digital monitoring tools, and their impact on efficiency
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and sustainability. It will explore the management approaches used in Ghana’s trawl fisheries, such
as stock assessments, fishing quotas, licensing, and co-management strategies. It will also evaluate
the effectiveness of current management policies. Additionally, the chapter will analyze the
governance structures and policy frameworks regulating the trawl fisheries sector in Ghana. It will
cover legal instruments, institutional arrangements, compliance mechanisms, and the role of local
and international stakeholders.
The final chapter will summarize key findings, highlight policy implications, and provide
recommendations for improving technological adoption, management strategies, and governance
systems in Ghana's trawl fisheries sector. The chapter will conclude with a reflection on the
research process, limitations, and areas for future research.
1.9 Work Plan
The table below shows an indicative work plan which I will follow in order to complete my
work.
S/N
Key Tasks
Completion
Jan-25 Feb-25 Mar-25 Apr-25 May-25 Jun-25
Date
1
Submit draft proposal
20-Feb-25
2
Proposal finalized
27-Feb-25
3
Literature review drafted for submission
19-Mar-25
4
Methodology/questionnaire for review
9-Apr-25
5
Data collection completed
12-Jun-25
6
Data analysis and discussion of results
16-Jul-25
7
Conclusions and Policy recommendations 20-Aug-25
8
Draft report including list of references
10-Sep-25
9
Final report submitted
15-Oct-25
Jul-25
Aug-25 Sep-25 Oct-25
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1.10 Budget
DETAILS
AMOUNT (GHC)
Data Collection & Analysis
30,000.00
Administration cost
5,000.00
Travel & Accommodation cost
10,000.00
Other direct project cost
10,000.00
TOTAL
55,000.00
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References:

Agbemabiese, W. T. (2024). Factors Influencing the Intent of Ghanaian Fishery
Enterprises to Adopt Blockchain-Based IoT-Enabled Traceability Technologies (Doctoral
dissertation, Capella University).

Akpalu, W., & Eggert, H. (2021). The economic, social and ecological performance of
the industrial trawl fishery in Ghana: Application of the FPIs. Marine Policy, 125,
104241.

Akpalu, W., Eriksen, S. S., & Vondolia, G. K. (2011). The economic benefits of marine
protected areas: Evidence from a randomized experiment in Ghana. Environment and
Development Economics, 16(6), 743-758.

Asiedu, B., Nunoo, F. K. E., & Ofori-Danson, P. K. (2019). "Technological innovations
and their implications for Ghana’s trawl fisheries sector." Marine Policy, 109, 103698.

Atta-Mills, J., Alder, J., & Sumaila, U. R. (2004). The decline of a regional fishing nation:
The case of Ghana and West Africa. Natural Resources Forum, 28(1), 13-21.

Bannerman, P., & Quartey, R. (2004). Report on the Ghana industrial shrimp and
demersal finfish fisheries. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

Béné, C., Barange, M., Subasinghe, R., Pinstrup-Andersen, P., Merino, G., Hemre, G. I.,
& Williams, M. (2016). Feeding 9 billion by 2050–Putting fish back on the menu. Food
Security, 8(4), 851-874.

Bryman, A. (2016). Social research methods (5th ed.). Oxford University Press.
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
Creswell, J. W., & Plano Clark, V. L. (2018). Designing and conducting mixed methods
research (3rd ed.). Sage Publications.

FAO. (2020). "The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture 2020." Food and Agriculture
Organization of the United Nations.

FAO. (2022). "Fisheries governance and policy coherence for sustainable fisheries." Food
and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.

Finegold, C. (2009). The importance of fisheries for livelihoods: Ghana country case study.
FAO.

Finegold, C., Gordon, A., Mills, D., Curtis, L., & Pulis, A. (2010). The impact of trade
and markets on Ghana’s marine fisheries. WorldFish Center.

Jentoft, S., Chuenpagdee, R., & Bavinck, M. (2018). "Fisheries governance: From legal
frameworks to social justice." Marine Policy, 95, 63-70.

Kolding, J., Béné, C., & Bavinck, M. (2019). "Small-scale fisheries and the sustainability
debate." Current Opinion in Environmental Sustainability, 39, 108-117.

Kwarteng, A., Yeboah, R., & Osei, J. (2020). Technological advancements and their impact
on Ghana’s trawl fisheries sector. Marine Policy Journal, 34(2), 145-159.

Mensah, M. A., Koranteng, K. A., Bortey, A., & Yeboah, D. A. (2006). The state of world
fisheries from a Ghanaian perspective. Fisheries Research Institute, Ghana.

Nunoo, F. K. E., Asiedu, B., Amador, K., Belhabib, D., Lam, V. W. Y., & Pauly, D. (2015).
Reconstruction of marine fisheries catches for Ghana, 1950–2010. Fisheries Centre
Research Reports, 23(1), 7–17.
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
Paes, L. D. O. (2022). The challenge of IUU fishing in West Africa and The Potential
Technology Solutions: An analysis of international cooperation projects in Ghana and
Guinea-Bissau. NUPI Report.

Pauly, D., Zeller, D., & Palomares, M. L. D. (2013). Global atlas of marine fisheries: A
critical appraisal of catches and ecosystem impacts. Island Press.

Pauly, D., & Zeller, D. (2016). "Catch reconstructions reveal trends in Ghana’s marine
fisheries." Nature Communications, 7, 10288.

Republic of Ghana. (2021). Ghana National Fisheries Management Plan 2022–2026.
Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development.
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