Fisherfolk in Jamestown have voiced concerns about the imminent $60 million fishing harbour project, fearing that it may be handed over to Chinese interests instead of local stakeholders. Chief Fisherman Nii Armah Wulu II expressed these worries in an interview, highlighting the presence of Chinese inscriptions throughout the harbour as a troubling sign that local fishermen might be sidelined.
The harbour, which is 99% complete, is expected to transform the fishing industry in Jamestown, creating over 1,000 jobs and boosting productivity. However, the lack of communication and engagement with the local fishing community has led to growing unease among the fisherfolk, who rely on fishing as their primary source of livelihood.
Nii Armah Wulu II emphasized the need for transparency and collaboration between the government and local communities to ensure that the project benefits those it is intended to serve. The absence of clear information about the management and control of the harbour has fueled suspicions and agitations within the community.
As the project nears completion, the fisherfolk are calling for urgent discussions with the authorities to clarify their role in the new harbour and ensure that they are not excluded from its benefits.