An escalating crisis for food security and coastal livelihoods has prompted renewed conservation efforts across Ghana that include the launch of Oceana’s first African office in the country. Its launch follows recent findings that some fish populations in Ghana have declined by close to 80% over the past two decades.

“Ghana’s fisheries are vital not only for the country’s coastal communities, but also for national and regional food security,” said Rashid Sumaila, an Oceana board member and leading fisheries economist.

“Unfortunately, some fish populations have declined by close to 80% over the last 20 years. Without stronger protections and effective management, these declines could continue, threatening a critical source of nutrition, livelihoods, and cultural identity for millions of Ghanaians.”

More than 21 million people in Ghana rely on the ocean for food and nutrition, with fish serving as one of the most accessible and affordable sources of protein. However, overfishing, illegal fishing, and destructive practices have placed increasing pressure on marine ecosystems, raising concerns about long-term sustainability.

Against this backdrop, Oceana has appointed Sonia Kwami to lead its newly launched Ghana office – a strategic move aimed at reversing declining fish stocks and strengthening ocean governance in the region.

Kwami, who brings more than 22 years of experience in advocacy, coalition-building, and policy engagement across Africa and globally, will oversee national operations and lead campaigns developed in collaboration with fish-dependent communities.

“Oceans and fishing are at the heart of Ghana’s coastal communities and have sustained families for generations,” said Kwami. “Fish remain one of the most affordable and vital sources of nutrition in Ghana, yet these resources are dwindling.

“Across Ghana, families, fishers, and small businesses rely on a healthy ocean for food, jobs, and income security. Oceana’s campaigns in Ghana will help safeguard our oceans and ensure that the communities who depend on them can thrive for generations to come. I’m honoured to join the organisation in advancing that mission.”

Oceana’s expansion into Ghana marks its first operational presence on the African continent and reflects growing international attention on West Africa’s fisheries, which are among the most heavily exploited in the world.

In her new role, Kwami will guide initiatives focused on rebuilding fish populations, improving food and nutrition security, and protecting coastal livelihoods – working closely with fishers, processors, local communities, and civil society organisations.

“Ghana’s coastal communities depend on healthy oceans, but these waters are under threat,” said James Simon, CEO of Oceana. “Sonia’s extensive experience working with local communities and leading advocacy campaigns across Africa makes her well suited to lead this work.

“Under her leadership, Oceana’s campaign teams in Ghana will work with fishers, women who process and sell fish, local communities, other nonprofit organisations, and allies to help strengthen Ghana’s fisheries and ensure that the benefits of abundant oceans reach the people who need fish the most.”

As pressure mounts on Ghana’s fisheries, Oceana’s new presence signals an effort to reverse decades of decline – before further losses threaten the resilience of both marine ecosystems and the communities that depend on them.

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