The Norwegian Ambassador to Ghana, John Mikal Kvistad, has reaffirmed Norway's commitment to supporting programmes that advance gender equality, sustainable fisheries and community development.
He lauded the growing impact of Norwegian-supported fisheries and women's empowerment programmes after witnessing firsthand how coastal women in Elmina were improving their livelihoods through sustainable fish processing and business development initiatives.
The ambassador made the remarks during a working visit to the Central and Western Fishmongers Improvement Association (CEWEFIA) Fish Processing and Training Centre at Ayisa in Elmina, where he interacted with fish processors and beneficiaries of the EMPOWER Project, a programme supported by the Government of Norway to promote economic mobility among women and strengthen sustainable fisheries management.
The visit offered the ambassador an opportunity to observe fish processing activities, inspect value-added fish products and engage directly with women whose businesses have benefited from training, mentorship and financial empowerment interventions.
Fish processors shared personal testimonies of how the Norway-supported interventions had helped improve their livelihoods and strengthen resilience within their communities.
In his remarks, the Head of Programmes at CEWEFIA, Nicholas Smith, said the visit underscored the strong partnership between Ghana and Norway in supporting coastal communities whose livelihoods depend on the sea.
He explained that through the Sustainable Oceans Project, the Gender-Responsive and Conservation Project and the EMPOWER Project, hundreds of women fish processors and traders had received training in safe fish handling, improved processing techniques, sustainable fisheries practices and business management.
According to him, the programmes had also helped establish savings and loans groups, creating financial opportunities for women while reducing their vulnerability and strengthening household incomes
"Today, we are not only showcasing fish processing activities but also demonstrating how women are being empowered economically and socially through interventions supported by Norway," he stated.
Mr Smith further noted that the projects were helping communities comply with emerging fisheries regulations, including certification requirements for fish processors, while promoting responsible fishing practices and ocean conservation.
He added that alternative livelihood training programmes introduced under the project were equipping women with additional income-generating skills to reduce overdependence on marine resources.
The ambassador, who described the visit as both insightful and inspiring, commended the commitment of local partners and beneficiaries in ensuring the success of the interventions.
"It is my first time visiting this facility, and I am impressed by what I have seen.
We are proud to be associated with initiatives that create real change in people's lives and strengthen coastal communities," Mr Kvistad said.
He expressed optimism about the future impact of the project.
Beneficiaries
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Gloria Quartey Papafio expressed gratitude to the Government of Norway, CEWEFIA and implementing partners for the opportunities created through the project.
She said the interventions have improved fish quality and safety standards, increased access to markets and strengthened the economic independence of many women engaged in fish processing.
"The support we have received has transformed our businesses and improved the lives of our families.
Today, many women are more confident, financially empowered and better prepared to meet market demands," she said.
Ms Papafio added that training in safe fish certification, savings schemes and sustainable fisheries practices had not only improved incomes but also positioned beneficiaries to contribute meaningfully to the long-term protection of marine resources.
