This visit marks the start of the FCWC’s Secretariat activities for the 2019 year, in what promises to be a very active year with several projects under implementation. After exchanging pleasantries, Secretary-General Mr. Dedi and Honorable Minister Quaye discussed general plans for 2019 with the PESCAO and WATF projects being implemented as well as the recommendations of the 11th FCWC’s Ministerial Conference – including the plan to secure a new office premise for the FCWC Headquarters within Accra. The Secretariat is currently housed in Tema, Ghana.

“I thank you very much for the opportunity to have this audience to present our best wishes for success and happiness for 2019. We know it’s not easy and understand your challenges as the head of the Ministry. However, as the FCWC is growing, we are confronted with demands and pressure from all angles. For example, the FCWC profits from the PESCAO project financed by the European Union, which will give us a Regional Vessels Monitoring and Surveillance System (VMS). This important fisheries management tool will require a lot of space for its installation, as will the staff who are currently cramped. We seek your support to fulfill the commitment of the Government of Ghana, in providing the FCWC Secretariat with an adequate Headquarters,” said Mr Dedi.

Honorable Minister Quaye assured the FCWC of her support in her response, saying “I salute your initiative and assure you, we will accelerate our actions with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Minister of Public Works and Housing for joint action and get back to you as soon as possible.”

The Convention that established the Committee, temporarily established the Seat of the Committee at Tema, Ghana. The FCWC Headquarters Agreement that was approved by the Conference of Ministers was signed and ratified by the Government of Ghana in 2015.

Secretariat FCWC