Central Regional Chief Fishermen Union, Canoe Fishermen Council, C/R Chapter Mourn With H.E. John Dramani Mahama

The Central Regional Chief Fishermen Union, together with the Canoe Fishermen Council (Central Regional Chapter), has conveyed their deepest condolences to the President of the Republic of Ghana, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, in the wake of the tragic air disaster that claimed the lives of eight high-ranking government officials.

On Tuesday, 12th August 2025, the unions convened a solemn press conference at Anomabo in the Mfantseman municipality of central region to formally express their grief and solidarity. Clad in the traditional mourning colours of black and red, the leadership described the incident as a monumental national tragedy whose impact has been felt across every sector of society.

Addressing in an interview with Douglas Oyiboh Amponsah, at the gathering, Nana Kwamina Sanka (II),Chief Fisherman of Anomabo, President of the Central Regional Chief Fishermen Union, and head of the Canoe Fishermen Council (Central Regional Chapter),paid glowing tribute to the departed officials, describing them as dedicated public servants whose work directly advanced the interests of Ghana’s fishing communities.

He lamented the destructive consequences of illegal mining, locally known as galamsey, on the nation’s aquatic environment, explaining that the discharge of poisonous chemicals into water bodies severely threatens marine life and disrupts the livelihoods of fishermen.

Nana Kwamina Sanka (II) noted that the late officials were actively engaged in combating this menace, working to restore the health of Ghana’s rivers, seas, and natural resources.

“We cannot, and will not, allow the President and his government to bear this grief alone,” he stated firmly.

“These gallant individuals died while pursuing a cause that touches our very existence as fishermen. Their sacrifice is our collective loss.”

The respected fisherman leader encouraged President Mahama to remain steadfast in the national fight against galamsey, assuring him of the fishing community’s unflinching support.

He stressed that the preservation of clean water bodies is both a moral duty and a matter of national survival, as it ensures potable water for the citizenry and a sustainable future for the fishing industry.

Lastly, Several other chief fishermen also took turns to speak, expressing heartfelt sorrow over the tragedy.

They emphasized that their assembly was not merely a formality, but a symbolic act of unity,standing shoulder to shoulder with the President at a time when the nation mourns the loss of patriots who gave their lives in service.

The press conference concluded with a strong appeal to all Ghanaians to rally behind the government’s environmental protection efforts, thereby honouring the memory of the fallen and ensuring that their labour was not in vain.”

Story by Douglas Oyiboh Amponsah.