Jamestown:Plastic waste accumulating in the northern section of the Jamestown Fishing Harbour is hindering trawlers from accessing the facility for repairs, according to Engineer Stephen Kwame Owiah, the General Manager of the Jamestown Fishing Harbour. The issue restricts the harbour's capacity to accommodate larger fishing vessels, though canoes can still enter.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Owiah explained that the waste is carried by wind from a nearby quarry towards the harbour. The problem is exacerbated by a short breakwater, which allows significant amounts of plastic waste to enter the facility. Speaking in an interview, he highlighted the waste as a major challenge, particularly in the northern section.
Mr. Owiah noted that the inability of trawlers to access the ship repair yard limits the use of the facility and called for measures to address the problem. Additionally, he identified the corrosive effects of the salty sea breeze on the harbour's infrastructure as another challenge necessitating regular maintenance. The facility was commissioned about two years ago and is exposed to a harsh marine environment that requires continuous upkeep.
To combat these issues, management has implemented a maintenance structure, with current efforts focused on roofing and painting works. Addressing these challenges is crucial to ensure the harbour effectively serves fishermen and other users and remains sustainable long-term. The harbour features four cold-storage units with a combined capacity of about 1,000 metric tonnes, but current fish catches are insufficient to fill even one unit. Mr. Owiah hopes improved access for trawlers will increase use of the storage facilities.
The harbour also houses a 60-metric-tonne ice-making plant, eliminating the need for Jamestown fishermen to rely on Tema for ice supplies. This facility supports fish preservation and marketing by providing ice for fishermen and fishmongers. Despite challenges, the harbour continues to offer a safer environment for fishing canoes and enhanced trading facilities for fishmongers. The number of fishermen using the harbour has risen from about 400 to over 500, attributed to an improved environment.
Mr. Owiah urged fishermen and other users to adopt a good maintenance culture to protect the facility. He emphasized that measures to address the plastic waste problem would improve access and enhance the harbour's operations.