Target: Emelia Arthur, Ghana Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture
Goal: Support national marine refuge to protect endangered guitarfish.
One of the ocean’s most unique and ancient animals is at imminent risk of extinction. The guitarfish – a combination of a shark and a ray – has over half of its species listed as critically endangered, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List. Harvesting of fins and meat has put the animals at particular risk in regions of Africa like Ghana, where fishermen rely on guitarfish as a key part of their livelihoods.
A marine biologist sees a different path forward, however: one that still benefits fishermen while saving a rapidly dwindling marine population. Dr. Issah Seidu has launched an initiative with the goal of educating fishermen about the importance of preserving this indicator species that helps measure the overall health of oceanic ecosystems. Seidu is offering fishermen an alternative harvesting method that focuses on giant snails, which can prove equally lucrative and, more importantly, can serve as a layer of protection for the endangered guitarfish. The effort has so far paid dividends, with hundreds of Ghana fishermen agreeing to scale back their harvesting of guitarfish, and dozens moving completely to giant snail harvesting.
Seidu hopes to leverage this success and one day create the nation’s first protected marine area: a refuge and sanctuary for guitarfish to recover. Sign the petition below to encourage investment in this would-be conservation milestone.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Minister Arthur,
Dr Issah Seidu’s efforts to conserve critically endangered guitarfish earned this scientist an international award and a distinguished position as co-chair of the IUCN shark specialist group for Africa. These efforts provided Ghana with an invaluable opportunity to play a part in saving an important indicator marine species and an irreplaceable fixture in the nation’s coastal waters. Dr. Seidu created the framework for a widespread monitoring network and a rewarding path forward for this country’s fishermen, with whom the doctor has forged powerful alliances.
Please do your part in supporting this success story by fulfilling Dr. Seidu’s vision of a permanent sanctuary and haven for guitarfish and all the inhabitants of its marine ecosystems. Establish Ghana’s first marine protected area and demonstrate your commitment to conservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: Johan Fredriksson
