ACCRA, Sept 15 (AGCNewsNet) – President Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana has officially commissioned the long-awaited Jamestown Fishing Harbour, in a historic moment for the coastal community of Jamestown, Accra. The completion of this state-of-the-art facility represents a significant milestone in Ghana's fishing industry and a boost to the livelihoods of local fisherfolk.

The harbour, a project first discussed in the 1960s, had remained unrealised for years, leaving the people of Jamestown with unmet expectations. On Friday, 13th September 2024, however, the community witnessed the culmination of efforts under the Akufo-Addo government to bring the vision to life. Speaking at the commissioning, President Akufo-Addo highlighted the symbolic and practical significance of the new facility.

"This moment is the culmination of years of effort and the realisation of a long-held dream that began as far back as 1965. Promises were made, hopes were raised, but no substantial action was taken—until now. Today, we move beyond rhetoric to action,” the President said.

Having grown up in nearby Korle Wokon, Akufo-Addo expressed personal satisfaction in delivering the project, recalling how he cut the sod in December 2018 amidst doubts about its completion. "In October 2020, I returned to inspect the progress, and today, here we stand together as witnesses to the fulfilment of that commitment," he added with pride.

The Jamestown Fishing Harbour is expected to transform the local economy by creating jobs, improving fish handling, and enhancing storage capacities. The facility includes a 200-capacity fish market, a 60-tonne ice-making plant, a 200-tonne cold store, and market stalls, among other features. Additionally, a daycare centre has been provided to support women traders.

“This port is a symbol of hope, proof of the resilience and determination of our people, and a concrete manifestation of what we can achieve when we work together for the common good,” President Akufo-Addo stated.

The commissioning of the Jamestown Fishing Harbour follows the successful completion of the Elmina Fishing Port in May 2023. Both projects are part of the government's larger plan to transform Ghana’s fishing industry. With the fishing sector supporting over 2.6 million livelihoods and contributing US$263.2 million to the nation’s GDP in 2020, the President emphasized the importance of continued investment in the sector to reduce post-catch losses, improve fish catches, and reduce reliance on fish imports.

President Akufo-Addo also expressed gratitude to the Ga Mantse, the chiefs, and the people of Jamestown for their support. He acknowledged the contributions of the People’s Republic of China and commended Ambassador Edward Boateng and former High Commissioner Isaac Osei for their pivotal roles in bringing the project to fruition.

As the facility becomes operational, it is expected to further revitalise the Jamestown community, creating jobs and driving economic growth in the region. The completion of the harbour marks a significant achievement in President Akufo-Addo’s broader agenda of infrastructural development aimed at improving Ghana’s socio-economic landscape.