Jacob Adzikah (left), CEO of the Chamber of Aquaculture Ghana and Roy van Daatselaar (right), head of ASC's Improver Programme © ASC
According to the ASC, this dynamic partnership brings together global expertise and local leadership to drive improvements across environmental, social and operational practices in Ghana’s rapidly expanding fish farming sector.
The collaboration centres on ASC’s Improver Programme – a practical, phased initiative that helps local fish farms enhance responsible farming practices. Aimed at farms not yet ready for certification, the programme supports continuous improvement in aquaculture. In partnership with COA, it seeks to develop a locally tailored Code of Good Practices (CoGP), grounded in ASC’s global standards and adapted through local stakeholder input and scientific insights.
ASC Improver Programme head Roy van Daatselaar said in a press release, “This partnership is a game-changer for Ghana’s seafood farming future. We’re proud to work alongside the Chamber of Aquaculture to help farmers improve practices through the development of the CoGP, strengthen market opportunities, and build a future towards Ghana’s sustainable development.”
Jacob Adzikah, chief executive officer of the Chamber of Aquaculture Ghana said, “The Aquaculture Improvement Project under the Improver Programme by ASC will reshape the aquaculture scene in Ghana by allowing businesses to reach international markets that seek certified farmed fish, while also drawing in new investment to the country’s aquaculture industry. The project is a step-by-step initiative that would help farms improve their practices in areas like sustainability, food safety and social responsibility, with the ultimate goal of achieving ASC certification and meeting global standards.”
Key highlights
The Aquaculture Improvement Project and Code of Good Practices will improve traceability systems, allowing consumers and businesses to better understand the origin and production methods of aquaculture products in Ghana. In addition, the initiative will enhance market access by preparing sector stakeholders for future certification opportunities, particularly ASC certification. This will open doors to international markets where there is increasing demand for certified, sustainably produced seafood.
Van Daatselaar added, “Through this partnership, the Chamber of Aquaculture Ghana and the ASC aim to position Ghana as a regional leader in the Blue Foods space. By developing a locally owned CoGP aligned with international standards, we can empower the sector with the tools and knowledge to improve socially and environmentally responsible operations, and prepare the industry to meet growing global demand for responsibly sourced seafood.’’
