By: Daniel Yao Akpabli | ignewss – TEMA, Ghana
The seven (7) Ghanaian fishermen who went missing during a fishing expedition have been safely returned to the country following a coordinated search-and-rescue operation involving the navies of Ghana, Togo and Benin.
The fishermen were received at the Tema Fishing Harbour by the Ghana Navy, the Ghana Maritime Authority, the Fisheries Commission and other maritime security agencies after the operation across the coastal waters of the three countries.
The crew members went missing on October 9, 2026, while travelling aboard a fishing canoe named Second Chance on a routine expedition from Sekondi towards Axim.
The group comprises Kwesi Emmanuel, 30, of Winneba; Kwabena Awin, 20, of Kormantse; and five others identified as Uncle Amoah, 24; Kwamena Konfo, 25; Kwabena Ekum, 35; Kwame Abeido, 24; and Kwamena Akyin, 38, all from Moree in the Central Region.
According to Kwamena Akyin, who leads the group, the crew disappeared while undertaking their fishing activities, prompting efforts to locate them.
The subsequent search involved maritime authorities from Ghana, Togo and Benin, alongside members of a local fishing association in Benin.
The successful operation highlights the importance of cooperation among coastal countries in responding to emergencies at sea, particularly when fishing vessels operate across maritime boundaries.
It also underscores the role of local fishing communities in supporting official search-and-rescue efforts and providing information that can help locate missing fishermen.
Authorities Consider Vessel-Tracking Measures
Following the rescue, authorities are expected to explore the introduction of mandatory location-transmitting devices for artisanal fishing canoes to improve vessel tracking and strengthen emergency response.
Such devices could help maritime authorities establish the last known positions of fishing vessels and respond more quickly when crews are reported missing.
Artisanal fishing remains an important source of livelihood for coastal communities in Ghana, but fishermen can face considerable risks while working at sea, particularly when vessels become difficult to locate.
The safe return of the seven men highlights the importance of strengthening maritime surveillance, improving communication with fishing communities and deepening cooperation among countries along the Gulf of Guinea.
The authorities’ proposed tracking measures, if implemented, could provide an additional layer of protection for fishermen and help reduce the time required to respond to emergencies at sea.
SOURCE: www.ignewss.com| Ghana Maritime Authority