The people’s fishery in perspective: current analysis of the small pelagic fishery value chain of Ghana

Small pelagic fish (SPF) are among the most traded fishery products in small-scale fishing in coastal areas in low-income countries. Small-scale fisheries play a key role in the supply of fish products and form an integral component of the world’s fish production. However, due to post-harvest losses, distribution, and marketing issues, most SPFs struggle to increase the market value of their fishery products. We examined the current flow of small pelagic fish products, benefit distribution, trade relationships and quality issues in the small-scale fisheries in Ghana. The purpose of the assessment was to provide relevant information for future management strategies aimed at promoting sustainable fisheries while also ensuring fisherfolks received a higher proportion of the market value of their harvest. A mixed-method approach, involving questionnaire administration, direct observation and secondary data from the Fisheries Scientific Survey Division of the Fisheries Commission of Ghana was used to elicit information and data from actors along the SPF value chain. The pattern of the value chain was mapped and differences in profit analysed. From this analysis, fisherfolks made lower profit than fish processors and traders. We found that all actors received lower profit during the peak season relative to the lean season. Provision of post-harvest facilities, credit facilities and improved value-chain governance could increase efficiency and increase the income of fisherfolk.