Rev Marine Action Plans - Nov 22 - Final Version

Prepared under the auspices of the Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee for:

Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development

COASTAL & MARINE SECTOR ACTION PLANS

November 2015

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Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee

Ø Environmental Protection Agency

Ø Fisheries Commission

Ø Ghana Maritime Authority

Ø Ghana Navy

Ø Ghana Tuna Association

Ø HATOF Foundation

Ø Kosmos Energy Ghana

Ø Department of Marine and Fisheries Sciences of University of Ghana

Ø Marine Police

Ø National Fisheries Association of Ghana

Ø Petroleum Commission

Ø Regional Maritime University

Ø Tullow Ghana Limited

List of Contributors

Ø Y Amoyaw-Osei Centre for Environment & Health Research & Training

Ø A K Amarh Department of Marine and Fisheries Sciences, University of Ghana

Ø Dean Slocum Acorn International, LLC

Ø Andrew Buchman Acorn International, LLC

Ø Ayirebi Frimpong Centre for Environment, Health Research & Training

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List of Acronyms CMCS Coastal and Marine Coordinating Secretariat CMDC Coastal and Marine Database Centre CSIR Council for Scientific and Industrial Research EEZ Exclusive Economic Zone EMP Environmental Management Plan EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EPA Environmental Protection Agency FC Fisheries Commission FPSO Floating Production Storage and Offloading FIA Fisheries Impact Assessment GMA Ghana Maritime Authority GMMB Ghana Museums and Monuments Board GTB Ghana Tourist Board IA Impact Assessment IIA Integrated Impact Assessment IMOC Inter-Ministerial Oversight Committee JHS Junior High School MAFS Marine and Fisheries Sciences Department MESA Monitoring for Environment and Security in Africa MFAC Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee MMO Marine Mammal Observer MMDAs Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies MESTI Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation MoFA Ministry of Food and Agriculture MoFAD Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development MSP Marine Spatial Plan NGO Non-Governmental Organization OSCP Oil Spill Contingency Plan PC Petroleum Commission SEA Strategic Environmental Assessment SHS Senior High School STMA Sekondi Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly ToR Terms of Reference UCC University of Cape Coast USAID United States Agency for International Development WD Wildlife Division WR Western Region WRI Water Research Institute

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Table of Contents Executive Summary .................................................................................................................... v Introduction ................................................................................................................................. 1

1.1 Background ................................................................................................................... 4 1.2 Action Plan Objectives ................................................................................................. 6 1.3 Plan Activities ............................................................................................................... 6

1.3.1. Formation of Inter-Ministerial Oversight Committee ......................................... 6 1.3.2. Functions of Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee ......................................... 7 1.3.3. Establishment and Functions of CMCS .............................................................. 8

1.4 Implementation Timeframe and Milestones ............................................................... 9 2.0 Awareness, Training and Capacity Building ............................................................... 11

2.1 Background ................................................................................................................. 11 2.2 Objectives: Awareness Raising ................................................................................ 11 2.3 Objectives: Capacity Building ................................................................................... 12 2.4 Plan Activities ............................................................................................................. 12 2.5 Implementing Organizations ..................................................................................... 14 2.6 Beneficiaries ............................................................................................................... 14 2.7 Implementation Timeframe and Milestones ............................................................. 15

3.0 Marine Environment Research ..................................................................................... 18 3.1 Background ................................................................................................................. 18 3.2 Action Plan Objectives ............................................................................................... 19 3.3 Plan Activities ............................................................................................................. 19 3.4 Implementing Organizations ..................................................................................... 20 3.5 Implementation Timeframe and Milestones ............................................................. 20

4.0 Marine Spatial Planning ................................................................................................. 22 4.1 Background ................................................................................................................. 22 4.2 Action Plan Objectives ............................................................................................... 22 4.3 Plan Activities ............................................................................................................. 22 4.4 Designating Institution ............................................................................................... 23 4.5 Implementation Timeframe and Milestones ............................................................. 23

5.0 Marine and Coastal Baseline Data ................................................................................ 25 5.1 Background ................................................................................................................. 25 5.2 Action Plan Objectives ............................................................................................... 25 5.3 Plan Activities ............................................................................................................. 25 5.4 Implementation Timeframe and Milestones ............................................................. 26

6.0 Land-based Sources of Contaminants and Degradation of Coastal Waters ............ 28 6.1 Background ................................................................................................................. 28

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6.2 Action Plan Objectives ............................................................................................... 28 6.3 Planned Activities ....................................................................................................... 29 6.4 Implementation Timeframe and Milestones ............................................................. 30

7.0 Livelihood Diversification Programme ........................................................................ 31 7.1 Background ................................................................................................................. 31 7.2 Action Plan Objectives ............................................................................................... 31 7.3 Plan Activities ............................................................................................................. 32 7.4 Implementation Timeframe and Milestones ............................................................. 32

1 APPENDIX 1: Stakeholder Perceptions, Concerns, and Environmental Challenges .......... 34 2 APPENDIX 2: Initial Budget Estimations ............................................................................. 36 3 APPENDIX 3: Draft Charter of the Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee .......................... 40

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Executive Summary

Background The coastal and marine domain of Ghana offers opportunities to a diverse range of uses. It is depended upon by a large segment of the population and contributes enormously to the national economy. Its governance is shared by several institutions, aligned under the direction of some twelve different ministries. Following the discovery of the Jubilee field in 2009, the rapid development and launch of the offshore commercial oil production has attracted world-class oil and gas companies, with huge capital injection into the national economy, as well as related sorely-needed social investments and developments in communities of the Western Region, including other sectors. Offshore resource development has raised expectations; and has also fueled speculation and confusion about the actual environmental effects of the oil and gas activities. A resulting backlash, including blame of oil and gas for myriad problems associated with fishing and the marine environment - such as declining fisheries and poor landings, frequent beaching of whales, algae nuisance, presence of tar balls, contamination of fish, etc. - indicated a clear need for scientific study and research-based action to reveal the actual environmental situation and trends. Independent Study An independent study was commissioned in 2014 by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Kosmos Energy Ghana to explore stakeholders’ environmental concerns, and evaluate the extent to which marine environmental challenges could be linked to and/or mitigated by oil and gas industry action. The study focused on six major themes:

1. Fishery and fishing decline; 2. Whale mortality; 3. Algal blooms; 4. Tar balls; 5. General marine environmental conditions; and 6. General coastal socio-economic conditions.

After review of nearly 200 studies, extensive stakeholder consultation, and independent analysis of existing research and data, the joint international-Ghanaian study team found some of the concerns raised not directly attributable to the offshore oil and gas activities, while others appeared to be. The study made thirteen general recommendations for addressing these major issues and concerns, whether attributable to oil and gas activities or not. The recommendations were further prioritized to facilitate specific, immediate actions, and included the following:

• Management plans to mitigate impact of exclusion zone; • Strengthened capacity for governance of fishing activities; • Measures (additional) to minimize harm to whales; • Marine noise study and management practices;

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• Algae source study and management plan; • Tar ball fingerprinting analysis and management plan; • Continuous improvement in waste management; • Continuous improvement in oil spill prevention and response; • Integrated, participatory and transparent baseline data compilation; and • Measures (additional) to minimize impact to fishing activities.

Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee and Action Plans In order to ensure the effective implementation of adopted recommendations, the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development (MoFAD) established a Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee (MFAC), with the mandate of formulating sector-wide Action Plans. The Action Plans that have been developed were the result of focused efforts, research and consultation by the members of the MFAC. Each of the Action Plans represents a brief and focused response to the priority recommendations raised in the independent study report. The plans are intended to be strategic and high level, providing description of key activities and objectives. Appropriate institutions/organizations have been identified to perform the next step of detailing the stated actions for implementation (where feasible). Otherwise, contracting arrangements and options have been indicated for selecting contractors or consultants to elaborate on the actions for execution. The MFAC will assume responsibility for coordinating the implementation of the Action Plans, per its charter, under the auspices of the Inter-Ministerial Oversight Committee (IMOC) through MoFAD. MFAC’s overarching mission (under the direction of IMOC) will include supporting MoFAD and other ministries in:

• Ensuring strategic co-existence of oil and gas and fisheries sectors; • Harmonious utilization of marine space and seabed; • Promoting inter-sectoral management of marine resources; and • Coordinating information sharing and decision coordination on fishing and other

industries that utilize marine resources. This set of Action Plans is intended to inform a two-year initial design, launch and implementation period, which will be followed by review, (re)alignment, and follow-on activities. The seven broad areas covered by the Action Plans are as follows:

1. Governance of the marine sector; 2. Stakeholder awareness on oil development and marine resource issues; 3. Marine environment research in support of resource protection; 4. Marine spatial planning for integrated management; 5. Marine and coastal data generation and utilization; 6. Land-based sources of contaminants and degradation of coastal waters; and 7. Livelihood diversification in coastal fishing communities.

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The Action Plans are presented in summary tables in the respective chapters, including the objectives and activities for each of the seven focus areas. More details regarding scope, timeline, implementation strategy and potential lead and supporting organizations are contained in the body of the report. The accompanying appendices provide a review of stakeholder perceptions and concerns, the Charter of the Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee, and the budget estimates amounting to $26.588 million USD. It should be noted that these budgets are intended to be illustrative, in order to facilitate initial planning purposes. The sources of financing provided in the Appendix 2 are also only indicative guides.

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Introduction

The importance of Ghana’s coastal and marine sector is reflected by its diversity of uses and the large population whose livelihoods depend on it, the sector’s immense contribution to the national economy, and the broad range of political and economic institutions with marine and coastal interests. Governance of the sector is shared by several institutions, aligned under the direction of twelve independent ministries. Yet despite these multiple institutional interests, gaps nevertheless exist in the management of marine sector resources. Overlapping jurisdiction and potential use and management conflicts complicate efforts for efficient and productive sector governance. Fishing remains the dominant use of the coastal and marine space, and it is an important historical and traditional source of economic, social, and cultural activity. Ghana was, for example, known as the fishing power of West Africa in the 1950s1. The declining resource notwithstanding, the fishery sector remains a critical part of the livelihoods of coastal dwellers, employing about 10% of Ghanaians, directly or indirectly. The development and launch of commercial, offshore oil production in Ghana occurred at an exceptional, accelerated pace. This achievement was not accompanied by a broadening of understanding among Ghanaians regarding oil and gas activity and environmental management in offshore contexts. Fishing communities in particular were not advised of the challenges likely to arise with the multiple and increased marine resource use. Heightened expectations regarding the new offshore oil and gas sector’s ability to address socio-economic challenges, has led to disappointment, especially in the coastal communities and among the fishing population. Information by the media, non-governmental organizations and other interest groups has tended to fuel speculation and confusion about the actual effects of the offshore oil and gas activities. The resultant backlash and blame of oil and gas exploitation for the myriad of problems associated with fishing and the marine environment—such as declining fisheries and poor landings, frequent beaching of whales, algae nuisance, presence of tar balls, contamination of fish, etc. remains an unresolved challenge. An independent study was commissioned in mid-2014 by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Kosmos Energy Ghana to explore the numerous concerns of fishing communities and other stakeholders. It was also meant to evaluate the extent to which attributed causes of marine impacts were supported by evidence; and whether such challenges could be linked and/or mitigated by oil and gas industry action. The study focused on six major issues commonly raised by stakeholders as the direct effects of offshore oil and gas activities on marine and coastal resources. These included:

1 Atta-Mills, J., Alder, J., & Sumaila, U. R. (2004). The decline of a regional fishing nation: The case of Ghana and West Africa.

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1. Fishery and fishing decline; 2. Whale mortality; 3. Algal blooms; 4. Tar balls; 5. General marine environmental conditions; and 6. General coastal socio-economic conditions.

The study made thirteen general recommendations for addressing these major issues and concerns, whether directly attributable to oil and gas activities or not. The recommendations were further prioritized to facilitate specific, immediate actions. The recommendations included the following:

1. Management plans to mitigate impact of exclusion zone; 2. Strengthened capacity for governance of fishing activities; 3. Additional measures to minimize harm to whales (MESTI 2014 Sub-committee

recommendations); 4. Marine noise study and management practices; 5. Algae source study and management plan; 6. Tar ball fingerprinting analysis and management plan; 7. Continuous improvement in waste management; 8. Continuous improvement in oil spill prevention and response; 9. Integrated, participatory and transparent baseline data compilation; 10. Additional measures to minimize impact to fishing activities; 11. Improved land use planning/governance for on-shore projects; 12. Coordinated consultation and capacity building; and 13. Continuous improvement to promote local content development.

In order to ensure the effective implementation of adopted recommendations, the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development (MoFAD) established a Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee (MFAC), with a mandate of formulating sector-wide Action Plans. The Action Plans are based on the recommendations of the Independent Study of Marine Environmental Conditions in Ghana, which should be referred to for more background and detail regarding the issues addressed in the Action Plans. The Action Plans that follow are brief and focused on specific actions and key areas where harmonious resource use by multiple stakeholders may be threatened. The plans are intended to be strategic and high level, providing description of key activities under the respective objectives, without defining the detailed scope of implementation. Appropriate institutions/organizations have been identified for selection to perform the next step of detailing the stated actions for implementation (where feasible). Otherwise, contracting arrangements and options are indicated for selecting contractors or consultants to elaborate on the actions for execution.

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The MFAC will be responsible for coordinating the implementation of the Action Plans, guided by the MFAC charter, under the auspices of MoFAD. The charter principally includes the following:

§ Establishment of MFAC to support MoFAD in ensuring strategic co-existence of oil and gas and fisheries sectors and harmonious utilization of marine space and seabed, etc.

§ Objectives and Duties e.g., to promote inter-sectoral management of marine resources, information sharing and decision coordination on fishing and other industries that utilize marine resources.

§ Membership (and Chairperson) from the relevant institutions, oil and gas industry, Fisheries Association, Academia and NGOs.

§ Administrative provisions and tenure The governance arrangement provides also for a Technical Secretariat and an oversight Inter-Ministerial body for decision coordination, aimed at pursuing and achieving integrated management of the coastal and marine sector. While the Action Plans strategically seek to facilitate the consolidation of all actions in the sector in a systematic manner, they should not be considered as final products, but rather are open to on-going development and refinement. For instance, on-going and similar projects2 could be integrated in order to leverage existing resources, as well as provide for up-coming or future similar projects3 for alignment with these Action Plans. This initial set of Action Plans is intended to facilitate review and realignment after a two year initial design, launch and implementation period. Each Action Plan comprises a chapter in this report, and includes key identified activities, expected implementation outcomes and milestones, and monitoring and reporting. Implementation budget estimates and potential sources of funding are meant as illustrative early estimates, and are thus provided in the Appendices.

The seven Action Plan chapters are as follows: § Chapter 1: Governance of the marine sector; § Chapter 2: Stakeholder awareness on oil development and marine resource issues; § Chapter 3: Marine environment research in support of resource protection; § Chapter 4: Marine spatial planning for integrated management; § Chapter 5: Marine and coastal data generation and utilization; § Chapter 6: Land-based sources of contaminants and degradation of coastal waters; and § Chapter 7: Livelihood diversification in coastal fishing communities.

2 One example is the USAID/UCC Fisheries and Coastal Management Capacity Building Support Project – a 5-year capacity building programme for fisheries and coastal management in support of the initiative of Government on food security. The related “Consultancies for Collaborative Research, Supplementary Livelihoods and Policy Dialogues in Fisheries and Coastal Management in Ghana” was advertised in the Daily Graphic of October 14, 2015. The thematic areas for the research are interestingly covered in the Action Plans also, such as fisheries stock assessment, marine fisheries governance issues; and assessment of biodiversity and health of coastal ecosystems. 3 An example of future projects to integrate in the Action Plans includes a highly innovative framework project for securing Sea Access being initiated by the Partners (Jubilee and TEN) (that would engender self-regulation of fishermen with respect to the Exclusion Zone).

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Governance in the Marine Sector 1.1 Background The coastal and marine environment is of interest to diverse sectors of the economy and resource users, and is governed by multiple institutions, under twelve (12) ministries (Table 1.1). The sector is also of unique importance to the livelihoods of the coastal population and the economy of Ghana in general. Table 1. 1 Sector Ministries and Respective Institutions

No Ministry Institution Sector Role 1 Fisheries and

Aquaculture Development

Fisheries Commission § Fishery resources § Fishing § Aquaculture

2 Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation

Environmental Protection Agency

§ EIA administration and environmental permitting

§ Environmental quality standards setting and enforcement

3 Petroleum Petroleum Commission § Upstream oil sector regulation § Assigning offshore oil blocks § Petroleum Agreement

4 Transport Ghana Maritime Authority § Shipping and navigation § Maritime pollution control

5 Lands and Forestry Wildlife Division of Forestry Commission

§ Convention on Migratory Species § Ramsar Sites management

6 Interior Marine Police § Fisheries Enforcement Unit § Prosecution of offenders

7 Defence Ghana Navy § Fisheries Enforcement Unit § Protection of offshore installation and

maritime boundaries 8 Local Government and

Rural Development Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs)

§ Administrative and planning authority over coastal areas

§ Coastal resource development § Waste management

9 Tourism Ghana Tourist Board

Ghana Museums and Monuments Board

§ Hotels along the coast § Beaches for tourism and recreation § Cultural/archeological resources and

heritage § Castles and Forts

10 Water Resources, Works and Housing

Hydrological Department § Coastal protection (works) § Coastal hydrology

11 Communications Telecom Companies § Telecommunications sub-sea cables and protection

12 Food and Agriculture Directorates of MoFA (MMDAs) § Food production/availability in coastal areas

§ Farmlands being converted for oil and related service industry and developments

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Given the array of interests of these institutions and ministries, the potential for conflict of roles, duplication of efforts, and dissipation of resources cannot be ruled out. In these circumstances, the interpretation of one institution’s statutory mandate and scope of application could become a source of contention with another institution with similar mandate. In spite of the multiple interested institutions, gaps do exist in aspects of marine and coastal resource management4, and legislation regulating activities in the coastal and maritime domain. The economic and environmental health of the sector requires a carefully balanced governance regime, promoted through an institutional arrangement with functional inter-agency coordination and relationships to harness the immense potential synergies of resources and capacities of these institutions. Such an arrangement would elevate the overriding need to project the national and common interest, over narrower institutional objectives. This could be achieved by the formation and institutionalization of appropriate structures to oversee the coordination of marine and coastal sector governance. The structures would include: an Inter-Ministerial Oversight Committee (IMOC) for the sector, with the ultimate responsibility for integrated sector policy and decision making; while a Coastal and Marine Coordinating Secretariat (CMCS) serves as the technical secretariat for Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee (MFAC) which coordinate services to the respective institutions. Figure 1: Sector Governance Chart

4 One example of such a gap is with regards to the management of marine mammal / cetacean issues.

Inter-Ministerial Oversight Committee

CMCS

Sector Institutions

MFAC

Sector Ministries MoFAD

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1.2 Action Plan Objectives The objectives for instituting the coastal and marine sector governance arrangement are:

§ To ensure coastal and marine policy coordination is placed at the highest ministerial level;

§ To facilitate sector integrated management through implementation of the Action Plans; § To promote streamlined regulatory functions (statutory mandates) of the various

institutions for enhanced performance and service delivery; § To facilitate effective institutional working relationships and collaboration; and § To promote efficient access to sector data by industry and other players.

1.3 Plan Activities The key governance structures/activities will include the following:

§ Formation and functioning of the Inter-Ministerial Oversight Committee (IMOC); § Establishment and functioning of Coastal and Marine Coordinating Secretariat (CMCS);

and § Coordinating role and responsibilities of the Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee

(MFAC).

1.3.1. Formation of Inter-Ministerial Oversight Committee The IMOC would be one of the two main governance structures for the sector to be established from among the listed ministries in Table 2.1 above. The other would be the Coastal and Marine Coordinating Secretariat (CMCS). The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development (MoFAD) has already established the Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee (MFAC); and the Ministry would also facilitate/initiate the formation of the IMOC. The IMOC would act as the highest decision-making body for the sector and also provide direction on coastal and marine policy formulation. Sector policy directions and instructions will be transmitted to the MFAC through MoFAD for action, and documented results, deliverables and recommendations reported to the IMOC through MoFAD. The sector-specific functions performed by the respective institutions (under their statutory mandates) will be coordinated by MFAC, in pursuit of overall integration. The CMCS will be available to liaise with the institutions and MFAC, providing needed sector-support services. The sector governance chart (Figure 1), illustrates the functional relationship as well as the hierarchy of the governance arrangement.

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Figure 2: Sector Institutional Arrangement

1.3.2. Functions of Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee MFAC was established on July 8, 2015 to play various roles in ensuring the strategic co-existence of the oil and gas and fisheries sectors, harmonious utilization of the marine space and seabed as well as support the MoFAD in its inter-sectoral and integrative approaches in managing and safeguarding marine resources. MFAC is also tasked with:

§ Recommending research priorities and advise on impact of Oil and Gas activities on marine resources and implementation challenges with existing laws and regulations;

§ Promoting inter-sectoral management of marine resource, information sharing and decision coordination; and

§ Evaluating and recommending priorities and programs to meet the needs of fishermen and other industries that utilize marine resources

Inter-Ministerial

Min. of Environment EPA

Min. of Transport Ghana Maritime Agency

Min. of Fisheries & Aquaculture

Fisheries Commission

Min. of local Government

Min. of Tourism

MMDAs

Museums and Monuments Board

Ghana Tourist Board

Min. of Lands and Forestry

Min. of Water Resources & Housing

Wildlife Division

Marine Police

Hydrological & Survey Department

Min. of Interior

Ghana Navy Min. of Defense

Min. of Petroleum Petroleum Commission

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Figure 3: Sector Coordinating Arrangement

1.3.3. Establishment and Functions of CMCS The Coastal and Marine Coordinating Secretariat (CMCS) would be constituted and established by MoFAD in consultation with IMOC. As a multi-purposed, specialized office, the CMCS will have liaison functions for the sector institutions and industry, provide technical support services for MFAC and IMOC, as well as facilitate the following:

§ Coordination of regular and ad hoc meetings of MFAC; § Responding to MoFAD and MFAC requests for research, communication or other type

services, and § Liaising with MFAC in procurement and contracting.

Proposed MFAC Governance Action Priorities Following are the high priority action areas for MFAC coordination:

§ Establishment of the Coastal and Marine Database Centre; § Implementation of the sector Action Plans; § Commissioning of gap analysis in policy and review of institutional mandates in

order to streamline and tighten sector regulations; § Codifying the national OSCP into regulations; and § Promoting capacity development and collaborative Integrated Impact Assessment.

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Capacity building for personnel of the secretariat would be provided under the Awareness, Training and Capacity Building Action Plan, to enable the staff acquire requisite expertise. An important sub-function of the CMCS will be the housing of the Coastal and Marine Database Centre (CMDC). The Centre will serve the following basic purposes:

§ Acquire data storage and management capabilities; § Promote the development and use of agreed guidelines on baseline data generation

methodologies; § Promote the development of guidelines for monitoring, data capture and analysis that

facilitates ease of integration with similar data sets; § Create avenues to build time-series data from various sources, which potentially enables

trend analysis and change detection; § Enhance the ease of acquiring sector data and utilizing credible baseline data in EIAs

(for the benefit of industry); § Enhance the ease of updating sector data for management purposes by the relevant

institutions; § Promote guidelines development for consistent monitoring requirements and

commitments in environmental (EIA) permit schedules; § Promote the sale of data to industry and the public; and § Ensure resource availability for normal institutional monitoring and data generation.

1.4 Implementation Timeframe and Milestones

Governance activities, expected outcomes, implementation timeframe and milestones are given in Table 1.2 below.

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Table 1.2 Implementation Arrangement for Sector Governance (for 2 years)

Activity Expected Outcome

Timeframe Milestones (Completed by)

1. Formation of the Inter-Ministerial Oversight Committee (IMOC)

IMOC instituted through the initiative of Minister of MoFAD

10 months 1.1 Memorandum for IMOC formation 1.2 Relevant Ministers approached 1.3 Cabinet notification 1.4 Initial exploratory meeting of Ministers 1.5 Inaugural IMOC meeting 1.6 Quarterly Meeting of IMOC

Month 1 Month 3 Month 5 Month 7 Month 10

2. Establishment of Coastal and Marine Coordinating Secretariat (CMCS)

CMCS offices acquired / set up and staff recruited

12 months 2.1 Memo. on caliber of staff & job description 2.2 Recruitment of qualified staff 2.3 Acquisition of office space 2.4 Furnishing/equipping of office 2.5 CMCS starts operation


3. Establishment of Coastal and Marine Database Centre

Database Centre established and operational

10 months (after CMCS establishment)

3.1 Memo. on caliber of staff & equipment required

3.2 Acquisition of facilities/equipment 3.3 Recruitment of qualified staff 3.4 Equipment installation and staff in place 3.5 Centre starts liaising/working on Data


4. MFAC roles in the sector Action Plans implementation

Membership of MFAC formalized. Schedule of meetings on Action Plans implementation in place

4 months Meetings: on-going

4.1 Invite other relevant organizations on MFAC

4.2 Schedule of planned meetings for 2016 4.3 Hold quarterly meetings

Month 3 Month 4

5. Commissioning of gap analysis on policy, legal and institutional mandates in order to streamline sector regulations/ roles

Revised Policies and Regulations/ Institutional mandates in place Costal and Marine Management Act.

24 months 5.1 Identify policy/laws requiring strengthening

5.2 Set up panel and conduct review 5.3 MFAC acts on the recommendations 5.4 Revised policies/laws in place

Month 6 Month 12 Month 18 Month 24

6. Codifying the national OSCP into regulations

Regulations covering OSCP

24 months 6.1 Set up panel from Institutions & Industry 6.2 Review & translate into regulations 6.3 MFAC acts on draft regulatory proposal 6.4 National OSCP Regulations in place

Month 3 Month 9 Month 15 Month 24

7. Promoting capacity development and collaborative Integrated Impact Assessment

National Integrated Impact Assessment (IIA) Procedures in place

24 months 7.1 Set up a panel led by a Consultant 7.2 Review/translate existing laws into new

IIA 7.3 MFAC conducts stakeholder review 7.4 Capacity built to implement Procedures 7.5 National IIA passed into Regulations


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2.0 Awareness, Training and Capacity Building

2.1 Background

As detailed in the Independent Study of Marine Environmental Conditions in Ghana, there are a number of areas of stakeholder concern regarding marine and coastal environmental conditions and trends, and their relationship to oil and gas activities. These key areas include:

§ Declining fisheries and expected actions; § Beaching of whales and exposure of communities to health risks; § Algal bloom nuisance; § Tar balls situation and reporting; and § Oil spill incident reporting, contingency plans and cleanup.

A summary of these key areas is presented in Appendix 1; the depth of stakeholder concern indicates a need to ensure consistent, accurate information be made available regarding the status and trends of marine and coastal environmental health. 2.2 Objectives: Awareness Raising

The objectives for the awareness and sensitization programme include the following:

§ To develop evidence-based, appropriately packaged information targeted at specific stakeholders;

§ To disseminate the information in order to inform objective perceptions; § To ease public anxiety, increase overall knowledge and build trust in the oil industry as

well in the existing environmental governance structures; and § To facilitate prompt reporting of environmental challenges, such as beached whales,

sighting of tar balls, oil spills, etc. Furthermore, the objective of the awareness programme includes:

§ To protect public health5; § To inform and assure the public regarding on-going research6; § To update and inform the public regarding environmental investigations7; and § To facilitate and build stakeholder ability to identify, understand, and participate in

cleanup of oil spills. The absence of sufficient stakeholder knowledge regarding the multiple uses of marine resources, and the interplay between oil development and other activities presents a major challenge. Raising awareness requires well-planned and implemented awareness and sensitization programmes that focus on the key concerns of relevant stakeholders. Such awareness campaigns will be effective if only the implementers and those charged with disseminating awareness information are themselves well-informed.

5 For example, by avoiding contact with dead whales and support communities to dispose of them hygienically 6 Research potentially to include possible beneficial uses of green Algae 7 Such investigations likely to include of sources of reported tar ball sightings, and follow up actions by EPA and others;

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A capacity building and training programme is required to bolster the knowledge and ability of a host of relevant stakeholders, including those who would play a role in awareness raising, monitoring and investigating, sighting, and for early detection and reporting, in delivering training and training of trainers, among others. 2.3 Objectives: Capacity Building

The objectives of training/capacity building include the following:

§ To prepare trainers for effective awareness creation; § To build needed national capacity (e.g., for marine mammal observation and

monitoring); § To provide local training on mitigation strategies (e.g., on the potential beneficial uses of

green algae); § To facilitate environmental reporting (potentially to include on tar balls, beached whales

oil spills, etc.); and § To provide environmental governance related capacity building. (A priority focus area is

in Fisheries Impact Assessment (FIA) and Integrated Impact Assessment (IIA)). 2.4 Plan Activities

The main actions to be taken leading to and in carrying out the awareness activities will include:

A. Developing evidence-based awareness information/programme for broad awareness areas;

B. Packaging the awareness materials, appropriately targeted at the identified stakeholders;

C. Producing the awareness materials in sufficient quantities for wide circulation; and D. Carrying out the awareness activities/dissemination through - public fora, focus group

discussions, seminars, public announcements, video documentaries, radio or TV programmes, websites, etc.

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Initially, the primary activities of the training programme will likely include the following:

1. Selection of suitable organizations (procurement) and contract arrangements for packaging training materials and conducting training.

2. Developing materials and delivering training covering the following proposed broad training areas – A. Fisheries issues; B. Handling and disposal of beached whales (carcasses); C. National guidelines for training of marine mammal observers (MMOs); D. Utilization of the green algae; E. Tar ball analysis and reporting procedures; F. Oil spill reporting and expected actions; and G. FIA and Integrated IA.

Awareness Raising: Topical Issues Based on Independent Study results and associated stakeholder engagement, the following topical issues have been identified as priority areas for early awareness raising:

1. Declining fisheries and expected actions - A. Exclusion/safety zone (safety of fishermen and risks to the environment) B. Benefits of marine protected areas to fisheries (role of Exclusion Zones as fish

sanctuary) C. Illegal fishing methods and its negative effects D. Laws and enforcement

2. Beaching of whales and exposure of communities to health risks - A. Causes of death B. Reporting procedures C. Health risks D. Safe disposal of carcass

3. Algal bloom nuisance - A. Sources of invasion B. Potential beneficial uses

4. Tar balls situation and reporting - A. Reporting procedures B. Sampling and analysis and action by EPA C. Source disclosure arrangement

5. Oil spill incident reporting, contingency plans and cleanup - A. Offshore operations and spill risks B. OSCP and international industry practices C. Spill identification and reporting procedure D. Health hazards of crude oil E. Potential destruction of fisheries and fishery closure F. Community involvement in spill cleanup operations

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3. Training delivery, including the use of visual and audio materials as well as interactive and participatory sessions.

2.5 Implementing Organizations

Implementation details regarding the development of materials, awareness raising activities, and training and capacity building programs will be determined by MFAC, CMCS and other appropriate stakeholders. Examples of roles for these areas are provided below. The awareness materials could be developed and packaged by the following organizations/ institutions:

§ Fisheries Commission (FC); § Marine and Fisheries Sciences Department of University of Ghana; § EPA; § Ghana Maritime Authority; § Wildlife Division; and § A communications company

The awareness campaign could be carried out by the following:

§ Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee (MFAC) and Minister (MoFAD) – engaging political institutions;

§ Fisheries Commission – dissemination in communities; § Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) – dissemination in communities; § Community Liaison officers of Oil companies; and § A communications company

The training/capacity building programme could be facilitated / conducted by the following:

§ Fisheries Commission (FC) – training of trainers for awareness creation; § Marine and Fisheries Sciences Department - training of trainers for awareness creation; § Regional Maritime University – artisans training; § EPA – Integrated IA; and § Consulting firms – training on Integrated IA, fingerprinting and marine mammal

observation 2.6 Beneficiaries

The beneficiaries of awareness raising, capacity building and training activities would potentially include:

1. National level: A. Political institutions (Cabinet, Council of State and Parliamentary Select

Committee) B. Media C. Oil industry

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2. Regional/District level: A. District Assemblies B. Fishing Associations

3. Local Level:

A. Fishermen and fishing related businesses B. Fishing Associations C. Fishing Communities D. Schools (Primary, JHS and SHSs)

The beneficiaries of the training/capacity building activities would include:

§ MMDAs, NGOs, Fishing Associations – Oil spill, beached whales, tar balls and algae invasion;

§ Wildlife Division and Fisheries Commission – Marine Mammal Observer training for staff; § EPA - tar ball fingerprinting analysis; § FC - FIA; and § FC, EPA, PC, WD, MAFS, GMA, Industry, NGOs, MFAC – Integrated IA.


The timeframe for implementation of the awareness programme is estimated to be 2 years (24 months), broken down as follows, including milestones, monitoring and reporting in Table 2.1:

§ Developing communication plan – 2 months; § Gathering and preparation of evidence-based information – 3 months; § Packaging the communication materials (to facilitate effective dissemination) – 2

months; and § Material production – 2 months.

The timeframe for implementing the training/capacity building programme (also summarized in Table 2.1) would be approximately 1 year (12 months), with the following milestones:

§ Conducting needs assessment to determine focal areas for awareness raising, training/capacity building;

§ Creation of a training and capacity building implementation plan; § Selection of implementing organizations/companies (including consulting firms) and

contract arrangement – 2 months; § Gathering and preparation of evidence-based information and guidelines – 4 months; § Developing guidelines on MMOs, fingerprinting and FIA – 4 months; § Converting information into training material – 2 months; § Conducting training for trainers – 4 months; and § Conduct capacity building for MMOs, fingerprinting and FIA – 4 months.

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Table 2.1a Awareness Activities, Implementation Milestones

Objectives Activities Milestones (Reporting periods)

(Completed by)

Monitoring and Reporting

§ Develop evidence-based, stakeholder targeted awareness information

§ Create awareness to

change attitudes and inform objective perceptions

§ Ease public anxiety

and build trust for the oil industry

§ Facilitate prompt

reporting of beached whales, sighting of tar balls and oil spill

§ Ensure understanding

of the dangers of oil spill and the need and also the benefits of observing the Exclusion Zone

1. Selection /

Procurement and Contract

Month 2

Procedure for selection followed

2. Awareness Information Gathering

Month 5

Quality of Information

3. Information Packaging

Month 7

Test run Packaged Awareness Information

4. Materials

Production

Month 9

Quality of Awareness Materials

5. Dissemination (Round 1)

Month 18

Effectiveness of Awareness Messages

6. Dissemination (Round 2)

Month 24

Changes in perception and positive actions through – § Prompt reporting of beached whales,

sighting of tar balls and oil spill. § Observing and avoiding the Exclusion

Zone § Avoiding contact with dead whales

and hygienic disposal of carcasses § Community trust and confidence in the

oil industry/companies, etc.

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Table 2.1b Training Activities, Implementation Milestones

Objectives Activities Milestones (Reporting periods)

(Completed by)

Monitoring

§ To prepare trainers

for effective awareness creation

§ To build national capacity for marine mammal observation and monitoring

§ To provide local training on the potential beneficial use of the Green Algae

§ To facilitate reporting of tar balls, beached whales and oil spill

§ To provide capacity building in FIA and Integrated IA

Selection of implementing organizations/companies and contract

Month 2

Review procedure for selection and contract terms Review reports on gathered information for satisfactory content, as the basis for disbursement of funds for training delivery component

Gathering information, organizing training materials and conducting training/capacity building:

§ Fisheries issues

§ Handling and disposal of beached whale (carcass)

§ National guidelines for training of marine mammal observers (MMOs)

§ Utilization of the green algae

§ Tar ball analysis and reporting procedures

§ Oil spill reporting and expected action

§ FIA and Integrated IA

Months 5 & 8 Month 4 & 6 Month 6 & 12 Month 6 & 10 Month 5 & 8 Month 6 & 12 Month 6 & 12

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3.0 Marine Environment Research

3.1 Background

The present marine and coastal environmental conditions and incomplete state of knowledge regarding aspects of marine resources and related problems indicate a need for focused research. Further studies will enhance understanding of ecosystem health and aid in the provision of objective information that may influence public perception. Ultimately, better data will allow pursuit of appropriate courses of action to address marine related issues. Main areas for investigative research include:

§ Identifying and designating potential suitable locations as marine parks/reserves; § Tracking cetacean presence and migratory patterns in Ghanaian waters, and

understanding factors associated with frequent and increasing whale mortality; § Sources of algal invasion of Ghanaian waters and potential beneficial use research; and § Sources/origin of tar balls along the coast.

Designation of Potential Marine Parks/Reserves Designating and observing marine protected or conservation areas, including the protection of identified spawning grounds could be important contributory measures to stemming the rate of fishery decline; coupled with the introduction of fishing season with enforced closures. Complementary studies such as fish stock assessments could provide the basis for determining and enforcing allowable/sustainable fish catch and fishing effort. Some fishing areas as well as fish spawning and feeding grounds have already been designated by the MoFAD and have been inserted on Vessel Traffic Monitoring charts of the GMA. These areas could be expanded further and promulgated to satisfy the national and stakeholder interests. There are also on-going projects such as the Monitoring for Environment and Security in Africa (MESA) project, 2013–2017; which provides fishing vessel traffic information on fishing effort and activities of fishing vessels within the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Cetacean Presence, Migratory Pattern and Mortality in Ghanaian Waters Cetaceans are highly migratory, but are known to spend significant time in the Gulf of Guinea. Scientific investigation is needed to carefully document and establish the breeding habits, migratory patterns, and periods spent in Ghanaian waters by the various species. Relevant protocols for monitoring should be established. Additional study may be warranted to consider whether and/or how seismic surveys (or other aspects of oil and gas activity) may be impacting these cetaceans. Algae Invasion of Ghanaian Marine and Coastal Waters Although the fouling of beaches in the Western Region by Enteromorpha sp. (“Green-Green”) has a long history and has received a lot of official attention, there is nevertheless a need to research, record and report conclusive findings on the subject, particularly including the estimated seasonal amount of the seaweed. There is an on-going study at WRI (of CSIR) which

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will require further support to provide conclusive evidence of potential beneficial uses of algae, for future possible harvesting and utilization. Sources / Origin of Tar Balls along the Coast The presence of tar balls on Ghanaian beaches has been linked to activities of the oil production and the increasing number of vessels offshore. With the potential increase in the number of producing offshore oil fields, there is a need for transparent, timely and scientific processes to identify the sources of tar balls, which would in turn inform the required actions by relevant authorities. 3.2 Action Plan Objectives

The objectives for the research on these four (and other) broad areas include: § To introduce conservation practices, in support of improved fisheries and sustainable

fishing efforts; § To ensure continuous monitoring of Cetaceans and causes of their mortality in Ghanaian

waters; § To intensify investigation on the beneficial uses of the green algae; and § To ensure tar ball source-identification.

3.3 Plan Activities

The main pre-research activities will include: § Defining scope of the research and the terms of reference, and § Selecting institutions and completing contractual arrangements.

The key areas of research would focus on the following:

1. Designation of potential marine parks and improving fishery resources - A. Survey of and designating spawning grounds and other significant locations such

as: i. Conservation areas; ii. Inshore Exclusive Zone, iii. Areas for industrial / semi-industrial fishing vessels, and iv. Fish spawning and feeding grounds.

B. Conduct fish stock assessment and allowable/sustainable fishing effort (updated from time to time); and

C. Survey and introduce marine fishing close seasons, publicize and enforce measures, etc.

2. Monitoring of Cetaceans in Ghanaian waters -

A. Monitor and document the migratory pattern, location/presence and breeding of whales in the Gulf of Guinea (Ghanaian waters);

B. Determination of (potential new) ship routes through information on water depth; C. Study the effect of seismic activities more precisely on whales, and D. Determine the causes and pattern of whale mortality along the coastline.

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3. Intensified investigation on the beneficial uses of the green algae -

A. Conclude findings on the origin and phenomenal drift of algae (green and brown) in Ghanaian coastal waters (e.g. Western Region);

B. Support research on the potential beneficial use of Enteromorpha sp, e.g., as animal and fish feed supplement; and

C. Survey the feasible harvesting of the seaweed for commercial processing.

4. Determination of origin of tar balls sighted along the coast - A. Take samples of the reported tar balls and conduct studies to determine its

origin; and B. Document records of all source-investigated tar balls for enforcement action.

5. Studies on restoration of degraded coastal wetlands and near-shore habitats that are

important for fish breeding and replenishment (recruitment). 3.4 Implementing Organizations

The research activities could be conducted by the following organizations: § Marine and Fisheries Science Department; § EPA; § Fisheries Commission; § Wildlife Division of the Forestry Commission; and § Water Research Institute of CSIR.


The timeframe for this phase of the research activities would be up to 2 years (24 months), which would be implemented almost concurrently over the period, after an initial 2-month selection (procurement) of researchers and contract arrangement period (Table 3.1).

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Table 3.1 Research on Marine Resource Protection and Related Issues Objectives Activities Milestones

(Reporting periods) (Completed by)

Monitoring

§ To improve fishery

resources § To ensure

continuous monitoring of Cetaceans and causes of mortality

§ To establish the

origin and drift of algae to the Western Region and potential beneficial use

§ To provide reliable

means of identification of sources of Tar Balls

Selection of research organizations (procurement) and contract arrangement (Scope and ToR)

Month 2

Review procedure for selection and contract terms Review intermittent (progress) reports submitted for satisfactory performance, as the basis for further disbursement of research funds for continuation

Designation of marine conservation areas:

§ Survey spawning and other significant locations

§ Conduct fish stock assessment/allowable catch & effort

§ Survey, publicize and enforce marine fishing seasons and closures

Month 4/8/12/16 /20

Cetaceans monitoring:

§ Migratory, presence and breeding patterns in Ghanaian waters

§ Effect of seismic activities on whales, etc.

§ Causes and pattern of whale mortality

Month 4/8/12/16 /20/24

Intensified study on beneficial uses of the Green Algae:

§ Conclude findings on origin/phenomenal drift of Algae to WR

§ Support research on potential beneficial use of the Green Algae

§ Feasibility of harvesting for commercial processing

Month 4/8/12

Determination of origin of Tar Balls sighted:

§ Samples reported Tar Balls for analysis to determine origin

§ Document records of all source-investigated Tar Balls for action

Month 4/8/12/16 /20/24

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4.0 Marine Spatial Planning

4.1 Background

The myriad of actors with interest in the coastal and marine environment are as diverse as the resources and services provided by the sectors, as well as the institutions managing these resources. The potential for conflict in the development and utilization of the marine space is therefore not unexpected. An integrated approach to marine resource and spatial management, where the various uses and functions are deliberately planned, allocated or designated to minimize potential inherent conflict, is considered a prudent option. Marine spatial planning influences where and when human activities occur in marine spaces. It also offers the potential to adopt appropriate management strategies to maintain and safeguard necessary ecosystem services and enhance synergies. Some areas of the marine space have already been designated for a number of uses such as for offshore oil installations, sub-sea telecommunication optic fiber cabling, and shipping and navigation corridor, etc. and are internationally recognized. These efforts, while commendable, should be expanded to satisfy the national and stakeholder interests. Successful planning will require adopting a collaborative approach in line with the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission Manual and Guide No.53, Marine Spatial Planning - A Step-by-Step Approach towards Ecosystem-based Management (UNESCO-IOC, 2009). The plan would be publicized, and the mechanism for updating the plan as and when necessary, would be established. 4.2 Action Plan Objectives

The objectives to plan the Ghanaian marine space are: § To determine and designate areas collaboratively for streamlined multiple use; § To promote integrated management of marine resources and space; § To ensure peaceful coexistence between fishermen and the industry; § To publicize the national Marine Spatial Plans (MSPs); and § To enact appropriate legislation to back the MSPs.

4.3 Plan Activities

The main processes to be undertaken by relevant stakeholder institutions would include:

§ Establish modalities for proposing/selecting potential sites; § Review and recommend locations for further study as potential sites for consideration; § Engaging specialized studies to confirm or otherwise as suitable site for designation; § Subject the prospective suitable site to stakeholder review; § Submit recommendations to MFAC and IMOC for acceptance; § Site accepted for designation and Gazette; and § Legislative processes activated for enactment. § Develop Safe Sea Access Strategies for peaceful coexistence between fishermen and

the industry.

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Potential spaces and uses for possible designation and the corresponding stakeholder institutions are presented in Table 4.1. Table 4. 1 Potential Spaces for Designation and Corresponding Stakeholder Institutions

No Uses/Spaces Institution

1 Spawning grounds FC

2 Mariculture development sites FC

3 Marine protected areas/parks WD

4 Marine mammal calving/breeding areas

WD

5 Deep water reef EPA

6 Tourism potential areas Ghana Tourist Board (GTB)

7 Archaeological find Ghana Museums and Monuments Board (GMMB)

8 Telecommunication sub-sea cabling GMA

9 Navigation and shipping GMA

10 Offshore oil and gas installations (Exclusion/Safety Zones)

PC GMA

11 Offshore bunkering GMA

4.4 Designating Institution

The Ghana Maritime Authority currently is the organization responsible for designating sites and has custody of the internationally designated charts for Ghana. GMA could continue to perform the function and be recognized as the lead designator in Marine Spatial Planning in Ghana. The MSPs could however, be housed at the CMCS, published and made available for sale to the public. 4.5 Implementation Timeframe and Milestones

A 2-year timeframe has been estimated for preparation of the marine spatial plans (Table 4.2).

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Table 4. 2 MSPs Preparation, Milestones, Monitoring Objectives Activities Milestones

(Completed by) Monitoring

§ To determine and

designate areas collaboratively for streamlined multiple use

§ To promote

integrated management of marine resources and space

§ To collaborate for the

effective management of Exclusion Zones

§ To publicize the

national Marine Spatial Plans (MSPs)

§ To enact appropriate

legislation to back the MSPs.

Initial review of existing marine designated areas

Month 3

Review progress reports submitted for satisfactory results, as the basis for further disbursement of funds for continuation

Conduct review to cover the following on the MSPs:

§ Spawning grounds § Mariculture development sites § Marine protected areas/parks § Marine mammal calving/breeding

areas § Deep water reef § Tourism potential areas § Archaeological find § Telecommunication sub-sea

cabling § Navigation and shipping § Offshore oil and gas installations § Offshore bunkering § Developing final draft of

legislation

Month 6

Engage specialized studies to confirm suitability of sites for designation

Month 12

Develop Safe Sea Access Strategies to ensure peaceful coexistence between fishermen and the industry

Month 12

Subject prospective suitable site to stakeholder review

Month 15

Legislative processes activated for Gazette and enactment

Month 24

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5.0 Marine and Coastal Baseline Data

5.1 Background

Various institutions generate or assemble a wide range of data types on baseline and monitoring data held in their custody. Due to limited resources, the required frequency of monitoring for consistent and reliable database is not maintained. There are also multiple baseline data generated within a close time bracket and in the same districts and sometimes in common communities, by various organizations, e.g., for EIA purposes. Avoiding this inefficient waste (of resources and time) could provide benefits for all. One direct approach to avoiding duplication of effort would be through the sharing of baseline data (where proven to be credible). Such baseline data could also potentially be used to update relevant national databases, if appropriately formatted, thus serving multiple purposes and benefits. The baseline data could be integrated, analyzed (if coordinated by one organization) and packaged for use8 by industry and the public. The available resources from sales could be utilized for monitoring and updating of the database. 5.2 Action Plan Objectives

The objectives of promoting database assembly and coordination for ease of availability are: § To ensure provision of a coordinated, centralized and credible coastal and marine

database; § To ensure relevant institutions have the resources necessary to conduct consistent time-

series monitoring; § To support industry and take advantage of data generated (both baseline and

monitoring) for national use; § To assist industry and others with ready-made credible data and thereby save time; and § To conduct trend analysis with available data to better interpret events in the marine and

coastal sector. 5.3 Plan Activities

The activities would involve baseline data generation, utilization and updating of data. The scope of baseline database generation/collation would include:

A. Baseline survey on fisheries value chain and state of infrastructure. Collecting data on: § Fish stocks and fishery resources; § Fishing effort and catch statistics; § Canoe and trawler population; § Population of fishermen;

B. Gathering data on socio-economics and livelihoods of fishermen and fishing communities;

Gathering data on state of infrastructure in the coastal districts with regards to:

8 Data sets could be made available for sale, by subscription, or (to accredited organizations) through appropriate free access.

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§ Health; § Water supply; § Education; and § Waste management.

Collecting data on health conditions and nutrition; § Collecting data on educational/school enrolment; and § Collecting data on fisheries and value chain.

C. Baseline on Cetaceans presence and location. Surveys and monitoring of:

§ Types, presence and location of Whales in Ghanaian waters; § Effects of seismic noise/sound on Whales. Cetacean surveys and monitoring would be conducted to: § Establish sensitivity of (coastal and marine) locations in guiding positioning of

offshore oil installations; and § Establish modalities for institutional collaboration on collating data on marine

mammals.

D. Baseline data generation on marine environment § To generate baseline information on marine environmental conditions on: § Physico-chemical parameters of coastal and marine water; § Heavy metal presence; and § Chemical compounds and other constituents; § Chemical contamination of fish.


The implementation arrangements for baseline data generation activities are provided in Table 5.1 below.

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Table 5. 1 Baseline Data Generation / Collation Milestones Objectives Activities Milestones


Monitoring

§ To promote a coordinated,

centralized holding of credible coastal and marine database

Selection of suitable organizations/ companies and contract arrangement

Month 3

Review procedure for selection and contract terms Review progress reports submitted for satisfactory results, as the basis for further disbursement of funds for continuation

§ To ensure relevant institutions have the resources to conduct consistent time-series monitoring

Fishery resources and landings, Fishing population and livelihoods, Fishing communities in coastal districts

Month 6/10/14/18/22

§ To support industry and take advantage of data generated (both baseline and monitoring) for national use

Monitoring of Cetacean (Whales) presence and locations

Month 6/10/14/18/22

§ To assist industry and others with ready-made credible data and thereby save time

Coastal/marine environmental conditions

Month 6/10/14/18/22

§ To conduct trend analysis with

available data to have potentially good opportunity to understand events in the marine and coastal sector.

Chemical contamination of fish

Month 6/12/18/24

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6.0 Land-based Sources of Contaminants and Degradation of Coastal Waters 6.1 Background

Coastal waters suffer from a wide range of contaminants of diverse land-based origin – both point and non-point (diffuse) sources that influence water quality adversely and impact biological life. Stream and river flows discharge contaminant-laden (usually heavy metals) into estuarine and coastal waters from Galamsey9 activities, and agrochemical residues from cocoa and agricultural fields (inland), as well as residues of chemicals from coastal communities. Loads of debris and plastic wastes end up in coastal and marine waters--a result of failed waste disposal/management practices in many coastal communities. Other contaminants originating from local communities into coastal waters include chemical compounds for mending broken canoes, pesticides and residues from chemical containers, the use of chemicals such as DDT, carbide and dynamite in fishing, etc. These pollutants can degrade coastal habitats, with implications for marine mammals and fish. For instance, one of the known causes of marine mammal mortality is through the ingestion of waste plastics/debris. In spite of this, the alleged contamination of fish and the increase in the number of beached dead whales, especially in the Western Region are commonly attributed to the activities of oil and gas industry. Slum emergence and indiscriminate waste disposal and beach defecation are common sources of organic loading on coastal waters. Six MMDAs have been assisted in their preparation of District Spatial Plans to facilitate planning, development control and effective management of land resources. However, the availability of the Spatial Plans has not translated into any tangible, up-to-date planning schemes, nor have they transformed planning processes and development control in these areas. Further support for the development of current land use schemes and enforceable local plans is urgently needed, if they are to achieve their aims of avoiding loss of prime agricultural lands, checking slum emergence, and addressing poor waste management practices. 6.2 Action Plan Objectives

The objectives of bolstering coastal resources conservation include:

§ Establishing the extent of land-based pollution loading on coastal waters; § Supporting the MMDAs in preparation of district land use schemes and local plans; § Supporting the MMDAs in enforcing their local plans –

¨ To achieve effective waste and sewage management in coastal communities; ¨ To protect the beaches from abuse and misuse; ¨ To prevent slum emergence in the coastal areas; and ¨ To protect prime agriculture lands (farmlands).

9 Galamsey refers to illegal mining in Ghana.

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6.3 Planned Activities

Plan activities would include:

1. Monitoring coastal waters to determine the type, level and sources of chemical substances, including heavy metals -

§ Collecting sample of coastal water in fishing communities; and § Conducting laboratory analysis to identify the various chemical pollutants.

2. Developing District Land use Planning Schemes and local plans from existing Spatial Plans -

§ Providing for agricultural land use areas in the Local Plans § Providing designated areas for waste management infrastructure

3. Enforcing compliance with the Local Plans - § Identifying existing gaps in enforcement and relevant bye laws; § Setting up of a land use enforcement unit and providing needed logistics; and § Conducting field monitoring of zoned areas and prosecuting offenders.

4. Designing standard/appropriate waste management facilities for used in communities by -

§ Sensitizing on segregation of waste at source (providing labeled waste containers); and

§ Promoting recycling of plastics (in municipal waste) in coastal communities. 5. Constructing standard, hygienic10 public toilets in coastal communities by -

§ Constructing standard toilet facilities in low income communities and in schools; and

§ Assisting the MMDAs to monitor and ensure use of facilities. The contaminant monitoring activities and preparation of local plans and land use schemes would be carried out by institutions/independent contractors, facilitated by FC and the Town and Country Department of the MMDAs respectively. The role of stakeholders in the Districts would be important in the process. The stakeholders would include representatives of:

§ MMDAs; § Lands Commission; § Ministry of Food and Agriculture; § Environmental Protection Agency; § Traditional Authorities;

10 The Millennium Development Goal (MDG) 7 seeks to ensure environmental sustainability by halving the proportion of the population without sustainable access to safe drinking water and basic sanitation by the year 2015. Ghana only achieved sanitation coverage of 15%, while the MDG sanitation target was 54%. According to the Population and Housing Census (PHC) of 2010, 13.6% of the population has access to improved sanitation, made up of 24.3% for urban and 2.7% for rural dwellers. The Western Region recorded an overall 12.2% sanitation coverage, with 25.4% urban and 2.7% rural coverage. The major sanitation issues include open defecation, inadequate provision of clean water and low hygiene practice. Factors contributing to the low coverage include: low prioritization of sanitation; lack of co-ordination in the sector; and lack of funds. The health implications and livelihoods challenges of poor sanitation and the overall health burden on the population are likely significant. (The MDGs were replaced in October 2015 by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)).

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§ NGOs; § Real Estate Developers; and § Land owners.


The timeframe for implementation of the land-based contaminants survey and control and land use plans/local plans would cover an initial period of 2 years (24 months) as indicated in Table 6.1a and 6.1b respectively. This would cover each of the 6 MMDAs. Tables 6.1(a) and (b) provide summaries of the implementation activities and milestones. Table 6.1A Land-based Contaminants Survey and Control Activities Objectives Activities Milestones


Monitoring

§ To establish the extent of land-based pollution loading on coastal water

§ To support the MMDAs

to manage waste effectively in coastal communities

§ To support the MMDAs

to manage sewage effectively in coastal communities

§ To protect the beaches

from abuse and misuse.

Selection of suitable companies/institutions/contractors and contract arrangement

Month 3

Review procedure for selection and contract terms Review progress reports submitted for satisfactory outcomes, as the basis for further disbursement of funds for continuation Feedback and recorded cases of beach defecation

Monitor coastal waters to determine level chemical substance, including heavy metals

Month 6/9/12/15/18/22

Design standard waste management facilities and construct for use in communities

Month 6/9/12/15/18/22

Construct standard, hygienic public toilets in coastal communities and schools

Month 6/9/12/15/18/22

Monitoring usage of toilet facilities Month 6/9/12/15/18/21/24

Table 6.1B Land Use Plans Development Processes and Milestones Objectives Activities

(In each of the 6 MMDAs) Milestones


Monitoring

§ Protect prime agriculture lands (farmlands)

§ Provide for designated

areas for waste management infrastructure

§ Prevent slum

emergence in the coastal areas.

Consultative process to review existing legal provisions for land use schemes

Month 3

Review progress reports submitted for satisfactory outcomes, as the basis for further disbursement of funds for continuation Feedback and recorded cases of infringement and prosecution (with respect to agricultural lands and unauthorized developments)

Demarcating/zoning areas for various uses (especially agriculture and waste management sites)

Month 8/12

Establishing facilities and setting up and resourcing a land use enforcement unit

Month 15/18 Month 20

Conducting field monitoring of zoned areas and prosecuting offenders

Month 24

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7.0 Livelihood Diversification Programme

7.1 Background

A significant number of offshore oil exploration activities are on-going in several blocks assigned to oil and gas companies. Successful exploration will result in an increasing number of offshore installations, such as the TEN Project FPSO - soon to be in position. As more installations come on stream, the view of fishermen is that access to fishing grounds traditionally fished will decrease, with a consequently negative effect on the prospects of fishing and livelihoods; occasioning increasing fishing incursions into the exclusion zones. The likelihood of conflict will also be high due to growing vessel traffic, with potential for frequent accidents and destruction of fishing gear. These potential impacts to fishermen occur in the face of a dwindling fishery resource, coupled with a potentially increasing fishing (fishermen) population, and heightened future fishing efforts. Besides the risk to life and potential pollution of the marine environment from incursions and other activities of fishermen, the cost of damage to offshore installations and other sensitive facilities, and also disruption of operations, may run into millions of dollars. Numerous alternative livelihood projects are being implemented or designed for implementation by various companies, but thus far have not had the desired impact(s). A long-term strategy is needed to address the problem of increasing population of fishermen and the increasing, sustained fishing effort. The fishermen could be equally engaged productively in other livelihood ventures and enterprises, during off-fishing seasons, especially as more such closed seasons are likely to be introduced in the near future. Others could be deployed into life-long skill acquisition towards total the transformation of individual’s careers in more productive enterprises, for instance, through the instrumentality of the Regional Maritime University (RMU)11. 7.2 Action Plan Objectives

The broad objective for the livelihood diversification programme is to adopt a long-term strategy for reducing percentage and number of coastal residents who pursue their livelihood through fishing, while enhancing efficiency and discipline in fishing. The specific objectives include the following:

§ To enhance access to education, with incentive provisions to attract and keep coastal resident pupils in schools longer;

§ To adopt a scholarship scheme for a number of children of fishermen to attain higher education and thereby open them up to career prospects other than fishing; and

_______________________ 11 RMU is an institution with capability to run programmes to support the oil and gas capacity building and livelihood diversification for both wards of fishermen and fishermen, such as in: Marine Engine Mechanic/Marine Refrigeration Mechanic; Basic and Advanced Welding and Fabrication Course; and Pre-Sea Vocation Course. The RMU between August and December 2012, for instance, trained 100 applicants from the Niger Delta, Nigeria under an Amnesty International rehabilitation programme for the Niger Delta militia. The applicants pursued programme in Marine Engine Mechanic and the IMO mandatory courses.

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§ To promote and provide complementary livelihood opportunities and skills development/acquisition for fishermen and fishery related vocations in fishing communities.

7.3 Plan Activities

The main actions (summarized in Table 7.1) to be taken in the development and implementation of the livelihood diversification programme are as follows:

1. Comprehensive scholarship scheme for children of fishermen; 2. Enhanced access to education and keeping the children in school; 3. Development of complementary livelihood skills, carriers and opportunities; and 4. Provision of the complementary livelihood skills and opportunities.

The activities would be implemented by suitably qualified companies. They would start first by developing the specific programme activities through stakeholder consultations and review of similar projects, etc. The beneficiaries would be particularly fishermen and their wards and fishing communities generally.


The timeframe for implementation of the Livelihood Diversification Plan is noted provisionally in table 7.1 below.

Table 7. 1 Livelihood Diversification Programme Milestones, Monitoring

Objectives Activities (In each of the 6 MMDAs)

Milestones (Reporting Periods)

(Completed by)

Monitoring

§ To adopt a scholarship

scheme for children of fishermen to attain higher education and thereby open them up to career prospects other than fishing

§ To enhance access to

education, with incentive provisions to attract and keep school pupils longer in coastal schools

§ To promote and provide

complementary livelihood opportunities and skills development for fishermen and fishery related vocations in fishing communities

§ To promote career change

opportunities from fishing to maritime-career based

Selection of suitable companies/ contractors and contract arrangement

Month 3

Review procedure for selection and contract terms Review progress reports submitted for satisfactory outcomes, as the basis for further disbursement of funds for continuation Feedback and recorded cases of successful entrepreneurial ventures

Comprehensive scholarship scheme for children of fishermen

Month 6/12/18/24

Enhanced access to education in the coastal schools

Month 6/9/12/15/18/24

Development of complementary livelihood and livelihood transformation skills, careers and opportunities

Month 6/10

Provision of the complementary livelihood skills and opportunities

Month 10/14/18/24

Provision of livelihood transformation skills and opportunities

Month 10/14/18/24

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Bibliography Acorn International (2015). Independent Study of Marine Environmental Conditions in Ghana

Ghana Statistical Service, 2012. 2010 Population and Housing Census Report; Millennium Development Goals in Ghana.

Monitoring for Environment and Security in Africa (2015, August 20). About MESA. http://rea.au.int/mesa/about_MESA

UNESCO (2009). A Step-by-Step Approach toward Ecosystem-based Management

United Nations Development Programme, 2012. 2010 Ghana Millennium Development Goals Report.

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APPENDIX 1: Stakeholder Perceptions, Concerns, and Environmental Challenges

Declining Fisheries and Expected Actions The processes leading to the development and launching of production of oil in Ghana occurred at an accelerated pace, without the benefit of adequate knowledge for the broad spectrum of Ghanaians, especially in the fishing communities, of the associated challenges for the multiple uses of marine resources. The Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of the Oil and Gas development, which could have provided the opportunity for comprehensive awareness raising and objective education of the stakeholder population, was unfortunately produced post-development, and did not address this awareness gap. Overhyped but unmet expectations from what was thought of as the panacea of socio-economic challenges has led to disappointments, especially for the fishing/fisheries sector, with a backlash and blame of the oil sector for almost every problem associated with fishing. Beaching of Whales and Exposure of Communities to Health Risks A sudden increase in the number of dead whales washed ashore between 2009 and 2014 fueled the perception that the frequent beaching was linked to the oil activities. A recent study to investigate the causes of whale mortality (commissioned by the EPA, 2014), indicated that the carcasses observed were mostly beached at advanced state of decomposition, which prevented meaningful investigation. The deaths were, however, attributed to ingestion of plastics and other trash, entanglement by fishing gear and vessel strike, among others. The carcasses always present imminent public health risk, especially from human contact and persistent, strong stench from the decomposing carcass. They are eventually disposed of in an unhygienic manner by the communities. Algae Nuisance The green algae (Enteromorpha sp.), and the quite recent brown algae (Sargassum sp.), have become a major nuisance that interfere with fishing and also produce offensive odor when beached. Oil and gas activities are again blamed for their presence. The green algae are however, linked to sewage sources from Abidjan, the Ivory Coast via the Aby Lagoon, while the Sargassum sp. is believed to originate from the Sargasso Sea, in the North Atlantic Ocean, and linked strongly to hurricane activities of the east Atlantic. Tar Balls Sighting and Reporting The presence of coagulated oil tar (tar balls) along beaches of Ghana has been observed since the 1960s, and could be generated by both anthropogenic and natural activities. One study by Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute indicated that about half of the oil that enters the coastal environment comes from natural seeps of oil and natural gas. Seeps are often found in places where oil and gas extractions are located. As a result, surface slicks and tar balls caused by seeps may often be attributed to releases from oil and gas platforms. A recent chemical fingerprinting analysis of eight tar ball samples from the Western Region found these not to match the properties of the Jubilee Field oil. The tar balls typically foul the beaches, rendering them unsightly and a major nuisance to beach users and fishermen.

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Oil Spill Incident Reporting, Contingency Plans and Cleanup Oil spill accidents could be associated with offshore oil operations. In the case of a major spill, fishery resources and marine/coastal biodiversity could be severely affected. Fishing and livelihoods could be disrupted and outright fishery closure might become necessary in the event of a major spill. Internationally accepted good industry practice and Oil Spill Contingency Plans (OSCP) could prevent and/or contain spills as well as their cleanup. Community members and fishermen may play a significant role by reporting spills and could be important in cleanup operations, but could also be exposed to potential hazards. It is essential therefore to raise their awareness of the associated health risks, among others.

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APPENDIX 2: Initial Budget Estimations Estimated budgets for the seven broad areas covered by the Action Plans are provided below. These estimates, amounting to approximately $26.6 million USD, are only intended to be illustrative, rough estimates to facilitate initial planning purposes. The sources of financing provided are also only indicative guides. Appendix 2A: Budget Estimates for Sector Governance

Activity Expected Outcome Timeframe (from Inception)

Budget Estimate

($)

Source of Funds

Formation of the Inter-Ministerial Oversight Committee

IMOC instituted through Minister of MoFAD’s initiative

10 months $50,000

Partly:

§ Oil and Gas Industry

§ Development Partners

§ MoFAD

Establishment of Coastal and Marine Coordinating Secretariat

CMCS offices set up and staff recruited

12 months $350,000

Establishment of Coastal and Marine (Baseline) Database Centre

Database Centre established and operational

10 months (after CMCS establishment)

$250,000

Implementation of the sector Action Plans (MFAC’s coordination role)

Membership of MFAC firmed up Schedule of meetings in place

3 months Meetings-on-going

$30,000

Commissioning of gap analysis on institutional mandates

Revised Policies and Regulations / Institutional mandates in place

24 months $80,000

Codifying OSCP into regulations Regulations covering OSCP $40,000 Promoting collaborative Integrated Impact Assessment

National Integrated IA Procedures in place

18 months $60,000

Total $860,000

Appendix 2B: Awareness and Training Activities Implementation Budget

Activities Monitoring Timeframe Budget Estimate ($)

Source of Funds

Selection of training and awareness creation institutions

§ Procedure for selection followed

§ Quality of Information § Review gathered

information for satisfactory content

§ Test run Packaged Awareness Information

§ Quality of Awareness Materials

§ Effectiveness of Awareness Messages

§ Change in perception and positive actions

Month 2 18,000 Oil & Gas Industry Institutional budget: § FC § EPA § PC

Development Partners

Information gathering for training/awareness Month 3 20,000 Training on Fisheries Issues Month 5 20,000 Handling and disposal of beached whales Month 6

60,000 National MMO guidelines and training Months 6 & 12 Training on utilization of green algae Month 6 25,000 Capacity building in FIA and IA Months 7 – 9 50,000 Training on Tar ball analysis Month 9 15,000 Oil spill reporting training Month 9 40,000 Awareness information packaging Month 10 30,000 Production of awareness material Month 12 30,000 Awareness campaign (Round 1) Month 16 80,000 Awareness campaign (Round 2) Month 24 80,000 Total 468,000

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Appendix 2C: Budget Estimates for Research

Activities Monitoring Timeframe (Reporting periods)

Budget Estimate

($)

Source of Funds

Research and packaging findings on:

Designation of marine conservation areas: § Fish stock assessment § Survey of spawning areas

Review selection and contract terms Review progress reports for satisfactory performance, as the basis for further disbursement of research funds for continuation

Month 2 Month 4/8/12/16 /20

500,000

Partly Oil and Gas Industry

Partly Development Partners Institutional budget: § FC

§ EPA

§ PC

Research vessel acquisition Month 24 2,000,000 Cetacean mortality and related issues : § Study causes of mortality, migratory

pattern, presence and breeding § Effect of seismic activities

Month 4/8/12/16 /20/24 100,000

Studies on the two types of Algae Month 4/8/12 200,000 Studies on tar balls Month 4/8/12/16 /20/24 100,000 Total 2,900,000

Appendix 2D: MSPs Preparation Budget Estimates

Activities Monitoring Timeframe Budget Estimate

($)

Source of Funds

Initial review existing marine designated areas Review progress reports submitted for satisfactory results, as the basis for further disbursement of funds for continuation

Month 3 10,000 Partly from 1) Norwegian Agency for Development (NORAD) 2) Oil and Gas Industry 3) Institutional budget: § GMA § FC § PC § GTA § Telecom

companies

Conduct review to cover the following on MSPs: § Spawning grounds § Mariculture development sites § Marine protected areas/parks § Marine mammal calving/breeding areas § Deep water reef § Tourism potential areas § Archaeological find § Telecommunication sub-sea cabling § Navigation and shipping § Offshore oil and gas installations § Offshore bunkering § Developing final draft of legislation

Month 6 - 9 100,000

Engage specialized studies to confirm suitability of site

Month 12 50,000

Develop Safe Sea Access strategies Month 12 100,000 Subject sites to stakeholder review Month 15 50,000 Legislative processes activated for Gazette Month 24 100,000 Total 410,000

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Appendix 2E: Budget Estimates for Baseline Data Acquisition and Monitoring

Activities Monitoring Timeframe (Completed by)

Budget Estimate ($)

Source of Funds

Fishery resources and landings, Fishing population and livelihoods, Fishing communities in coastal districts

Review procedure for selection and contract terms Review progress reports submitted for satisfactory results, as the basis for further disbursement of funds for continuation

Month 3 Month 6/10/14/18/22

$200,000

Oil & Gas Industry Institutional budget: § PC § FC § EPA

Monitoring of Cetacean (Whales) Month 6/10/14/18/22 $200,000 Offshore marine environmental conditions

Month 6/10/14/18/22 $500,000

Chemical contamination in fish Month 6/12/18/24 $50,000

Total 950,000

Appendix 2F: Budget Estimates for Land-based Contaminants Survey and Control

Activities Monitoring Timeframe (Completed by)

Budget Estimate ($)

Source of Funds

Select suitable organizations/ companies for contracts

Monitor coastal (inland and near shore) waters to determine level of contaminants

Design standard waste management facilities and construct for communities

Construct hygienic public toilets in communities and schools

Monitor usage of toilet facilities

Review procedure for selection/contract terms

Review progress reports submitted for satisfactory outcomes, as the basis for further disbursement of funds for continuation

Feedback/recorded cases of beach defecation

Month 3 Month 6/9/12/15/18/22 Month 6/9/12/15/18/21/24

$1,000,000 (for each MMDA)

Oil & Gas Industry Development Partners

In each of the 6 MMDAs Select suitable organizations/ companies for contracts

Review procedure for selection/contract terms Review progress reports submitted for satisfactory outcomes, as the basis for further disbursement of funds for continuation Feedback and recorded cases of infringement and prosecution

Month 3

$500,000 (for each MMDA)

Oil & Gas Industry and 6 MMDAs

Develop local plans and land use schemes

Month 15/18

Demarcate/zone areas for various uses (especially agriculture and waste management sites)

Month 20

Establish facilities and set up resourced land use enforcement unit

Month 8/12

Conduct field monitoring of zoned areas and prosecute offenders

Month 24

Total 9,000,000

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Appendix 2G: Estimates for Livelihood Diversification Programme

Activities Timeframe (Completed by)

Monitoring Budget Estimate ($)

Source of Funds

In each of the 6 MMDAs Selection of suitable companies and contractors Scholarship scheme for children of fishermen Enhanced access to education in the coastal schools Development of complementary livelihood opportunities Provision of the complementary livelihood skills and opportunities Provision of livelihood transformation skills and opportunities

Completed in: Month 3 Month 6/12/18/24 Month 6/9/12/15/18/24 Month 6/10 Month 10/14/18/24 Month 10/14/18/24

Review procedure for selection and contract terms Review progress reports submitted for satisfactory outcomes, as the basis for further disbursement of funds for continuation Feedback and recorded cases of successful entrepreneurial ventures and livelihood transformation cases

$2,000,000 (for each MMDA)

Oil and Gas Industry Development Partners

Total 6.3M 12,000,000

Appendix 2H: Composite Budget Estimates for the 8 Action Plans

No Action Plan Budget Estimate ($)

1 Governance in the Marine Sector 860,000

2 Awareness, Training and Capacity Building 468,000

3 Marine environment research in support of resource protection 2,900,000

4 Marine Spatial Planning for Integrated Management 410,000

5 Marine and Coastal Baseline Data Generation and Utilization 950,000

6 Land-based Contaminants Survey and Control in Coastal Waters 9,000,000

7 Livelihood Diversification Programme 12,000,000

Total 26,588,000

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APPENDIX 3: Draft Charter of the Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee ESTABLISHMENT Section 13 of the Fisheries Act 2002 requires the Fisheries Commission to “cooperate fully with all government departments and agencies and other public authorities. A closer look at the Fisheries and the Oil and Gas sectors in Ghana indicates that implementation and enforcement of existing regulations and standards are the main constraints to ensuring coexistence and harmonious utilization of the sea environment rather than the inadequacy of the standards and regulations themselves. In an effort to bridge this implementation gap, the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development (MOFAD) has approved the establishment of a Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee to play various roles in ensuring strategic coexistence of the Oil and Gas and Fisheries Sector and Harmonious Initialization of Marine Space and Seabed. The Committee would support the Ministry in its inter-sectoral and integrative approaches in managing and safeguarding marine resources in accordance with the duties and laws imposed on the Ministry. OBJECTIVES AND DUTIES

1. The Committee will advise the Ministry on matters relating to implementation challenges with existing laws and regulations

2. The Committee will recommend research priorities and advise the Ministry on matters emanating from relevant scientific research related to the impact of Oil and Gas activities on marine resources that are within the mandates of the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development and the Fisheries Commission.

3. The committee would promote inter-sectoral management of marine resource, information

sharing and where appropriate coordinate decisions to feed into broader fisheries commission’s decision making.

4. Specifically, the Committee will draw on the expertise of its members and other appropriate

sources to evaluate and recommend priorities and programs to meet the needs of fishermen and other industries that utilize marine resources.

5. The Committee will function solely as an advisory body, and will comply fully with the Ghana

Fisheries Act 2002.

6. The Committee will advise on enforcement and implementation of Management Plans and other strategic programs for the Marine fisheries sector.

MEMBERS AND CHAIRPERSON The Committee shall consist of at least 11 but not more than 17 members to be appointed by the Minister to ensure a balanced representation.

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Criteria for membership are one or more of the following:

1. Experience in managing, harvesting and processing marine resources 2. Experience as a former or current officer or in a leadership role in a national, private or non-

governmental organization with marine fisheries interests and operating within the marine environments

3. Experience in managing and conserving fishery resources through active and sustained participation

4. Experience in researching and adjudicating matters related to fisheries, fishery management, and fishery resource conservation.

Membership would be revised annually at the discretion of the Minister. Members are selected for their expertise in the aforementioned areas of experience to help guide the Ministry with implementing its stewardship mission over living marine resources in the most effective manner. Terms of appointment are contingent upon the Committee’s continuation and the active participation of the members. An appointment may be terminated if a member misses two consecutive meetings, unless excused for good cause by the Chairperson or the Vice Chair. Members serve until reappointed or replaced. The Chairperson is the Vice Chancellor, Regional Maritime University, Prof. Elvis Nyarko, and the Vice Chair is the Director, Health, Safety, Environment and Security of Kosmos Energy, Ghana, Dr. Kwame Boakye Agyei

Position Functional Description Chair The Chair is responsible for managing the overall strategies and

performance of the Committee. Chair’s serve a one year term unless circumstances require an extension.

Vice-Chair The Vice-Chair provides assistance to the chair and serves as chair in the chair's absence.

Member Actively participates in the operations of Committee. Current representation includes MoFAD, EPA, PC, O&G Industry, Fisheries Association, Academia, NGOs, Ghana Navy, Ghana Marine Police and Ghana Maritime Authority.

Coordinator/Secretary Provides direct support to the Chair and Vice-Chair with regard to planning the day-to-day business.

Secretariat Includes Chair, Coordinator, and other appointed staff by the Ministry AMENDMENT OF THE CHARTER The Committee has the right to amend provisions within this charter with approval from the Hon. Minister, when the need arises and after the suggested amendment has been deliberated on by members of the Committee at its sitting ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS

1. The Committee will report to the Minister through the Coordinator 2. The presence of 10 members shall constitute a quorum for meetings to commence 3. The Committee will meet quarterly at the call of the Chairperson or Vice Chair. 4. The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development will provide staff support for the

Committee. 5. The Committee may establish subcommittees or working groups of its members as necessary 6. The Committee may establish task forces consisting of MFAC members and outside experts as

may be necessary 7. The annual cost of operating the Committee would be estimated in consultation with the Ministry 8. Members of the Committee are not compensated for their services but will be allowed per diem

expenses as authorized by the Ministry

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DURATION This charter is effective as of the date of approval by the Minister and shall remain in effect until revised or revoked by the Hon. Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture. Date of Approval: July 08, 2015

"H:IJ..SINIWlAYA"H"H:I·NOH

Signature:………………………………………………

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Rev Marine Action Plans - Nov 22 - Final Version

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