Title : Impacts of closed season on operations, livelihood and coping strategies of fishermen in Ghana
Abstract:
This study was conducted to ascertain how closed season affects operations, livelihood, and coping strategies of fishermen in Ghana. The results showed that coping strategies employed by fishermen during the closed season include reliance on their savings (96.50%), reduction in expenses (88.50%), and asking relatives for help (72.50%). Lower income (91.50%), high expenses (76.00%) as well as inability to pay bills (68.50%) are the top three challenges faced by fishermen during a closed season. According to the outcome equation, Chorkor's pre-ban and post-ban catch will likely be higher than Jamestown, Takoradi, and Nkontompo's. However, income (pre-ban and post-ban) is likely lower in Chorkor than in James town, Takoradi, and Nkontompo. Fishermen who catch 100kg-199kg of fish per trip are likely to see an increase in the capture, while those who capture less than 100kg are likely to capture less after the ban, although it is not significant.
Audience take-away:
- Coping Strategies During Closed Season: Audience will learn that fishermen primarily rely on personal savings (96.50%) to cope with the financial challenges posed by closed seasons. They will also know that reduction in expenses (88.50%) and seeking assistance from relatives (72.50%) are also common coping mechanisms employed by fishermen.
- Top Challenges Faced by Fishermen: Audience will learn that lower income (91.50%) is identified as the most significant challenge during closed seasons, highlighting the economic impact on fishermen. They will also learn that high expenses (76.00%) and the inability to pay bills (68.50%) are the second and third top challenges, respectively.
- Anticipated Impact on Catch and Income Post Closed Season: The study reveals that Chorkor's pre-ban and post-ban catch is expected to be higher than Jamestown, Takoradi, and Nkontompo's. However, the anticipated income (pre-ban and post-ban) is likely to be lower in Chorkor compared to James town, Takoradi, and Nkontompo. Fishermen catching 100kg-199kg of fish per trip are expected to see an increase in captures after the ban, while those catching less than 100kg may experience a decrease, although the latter is not statistically significant.
