John Quayson "Manoma "Appointed Presidential Aide to Fisheries Ministry

John Quayson "Manoma "Appointed Presidential Aide to Fisheries Ministry

In a move that has been met with widespread applause across Ghana’s coastal communities, Mr. John Quayson, Populary known as Manoma has been appointed as a Presidential Aide attached to the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development. His new role comes with a critical responsibility: to advise the Sector Minister on indigenous knowledge and traditional fishing practices.

The appointment, which reflects President Mahama’s commitment to incorporating local expertise into governance, has sparked excitement among fisherfolk nationwide, many of whom view  Manoma as a long-standing voice of advocacy and reform in the fisheries sector.

Manoma, a seasoned fisherman and policy advocate, has spent decades championing reforms in the fishing industry, particularly during the administration of former President John Agyekum Kufuor. His outspoken stance against issues such as pair trawling, illegal fishing practices, and the mismanagement of premix fuel has earned him deep respect within the fishing community and among policymakers alike.

“His appointment is a huge boost for traditional fishing communities,” said Kofi Atta, a fisherman in Elmina. “Finally, we have someone close to power who truly understands the struggles of the ordinary fisherfolk.”

Known for his in-depth understanding of marine ecosystems and indigenous fishing methods,  Manoma is expected to bridge the gap between modern policy approaches and the centuries-old practices still prevalent among Ghana’s artisanal fishers.

Manoma’s appointment is seen as a strategic step towards ensuring that policy decisions in the fisheries sector are grounded in both scientific data and traditional wisdom—an approach widely recommended by environmental experts.

As he steps into his new role, expectations are high that  Manoma will help shape reforms that balance ecological sustainability, economic livelihoods, and cultural preservation in one of Ghana’s most vital sectors.