The Chamber of Aquaculture Ghana (COA) and the American Soybean Association’s (ASA)/World Initiative for Soy in Human Health (ASA/WISHH) have formalized their partnership with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at fostering aquaculture sustainability and development in Ghana. The signing ceremony took place at Sogakope in the Volta Region of Ghana.
In opening remarks, the Director of WISHH’s Africa Division, Mr. Chris Slemp, stated that WISHH has been impressed with COA's potential and impact on the Ghanaian aquaculture industry. He highlighted WISHH's commitment to actively participate in COA's annual Aquaculture Ghana conference, a key event for industry stakeholders.
Mr. Slemp also emphasized WISHH's partnership with COA to address the challenge of job placement for aquaculture graduates. The collaboration will leverage COA's network to provide employment opportunities for graduates of the WISHH training program, which equips individuals with expert knowledge and practical field experience.
The Director of Research, Statistics and Information Management at the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Mr. Ishmael Browne affirmed the ministry's strong relationship with COA, recognizing the importance of the Aquaculture Ghana conference. He expressed confidence that the agreement would benefit both organizations and significantly advance the aquaculture sector in Ghana.
COA CEO, Mr. Jacob Adzikah, praised WISHH as a valuable partner, acknowledging their early support for the Chamber. He expressed delight in formalizing the relationship through the MoU. Mr. Adzikah announced the upcoming launch of a COA job portal where skilled aquaculture professionals can upload their credentials for potential employers. This portal will also serve as a resource for interns participating in the WISHH training initiative. He further emphasized the Aquaculture Ghana event as an ideal platform for showcasing talent and skills within the aquaculture value chain.
The Executive Director of WISHH, Madam Gena Perry expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, anticipating a future of expanded opportunities for COA, WISHH, and the Ghanaian aquaculture industry.