Fishermen in the Sege Constituency have expressed frustration over the delayed and inconsistent supply of premix fuel, a critical resource for their livelihood.
According to them, it is a major challenge that affects their operations as fishermen.
Emmanuel Oman, a fisherman from Akplabanya, who spoke on The Constituency on Channel One TV, noted that the situation has become dire, with premix fuel only being supplied once every six months.
This shortage, he said, has forced many fishermen to turn to the black market, where prices are exorbitantly high.
“When it comes to the premix fuel, it is very terrible. They supply the premix fuel once every six months. So, we resort to the black market to purchase the premix fuel. On the black market, we purchase a gallon for GH¢400 and we need about 6 of those before we can go for a trip. If you go and you don’t make a catch, then it is your loss. All the boats here receive 15 gallons of premix fuel and that is insufficient.
Kojo Odartey, another fisherman, expressed additional concerns about environmental challenges.
“I agree with my brother on the premix fuel. it is our major challenge. But beyond that the sea sometimes gets terrible. it overflows into our houses. This is the main problem that we face here in Sege. When you were coming, you realised that the road they diverted, it is because sometimes the sea overflows and enters our houses,” he added.
Similarly, Samuel Alimbo, also a fisherman added: “For our challenges, first is the petrol, we don’t get it for our work. Second, too because of the cost of our machines and the outboard motors and also the canoe. Because the cost of the canoe for example is high. So, if we are not able to get the premix, it means your work will likely collapse.
As the December elections approach, the economic hardships faced by these fishermen are at the forefront of their minds. Reflecting on the sharp increase in prices of essential fishing equipment like outboard motors.
“I will vote definitely, and I will do that based on the current economic crisis. Because as we speak, we can buy an outboard motor. They used to sell it to us for GH¢10,000, but now it is almost GH¢50, 000. How can we buy that? So, I will vote for a government that will help us,” he stated.
He continued: “When I look at the politics of Mahama, I think they will help us.”
