As part of an effort to enhance livelihoods and build local capacity, Kosmos Energy Ghana has constructed a six unit fish smoking facility for women in Ankobra in the Ellembele District of the Western Region.

The initiative, which included capacity-building and business education components, provided training for 152 women in the Ankobra Community involved in the fish smoking business.

The focus of the project was to maintain business continuity during the lean fishing season and prevent post-harvest losses during the high catch season. The women were also trained in basic management and advocacy, occupational safety, hygiene and environmental management.

Mr Ken Keag, Vice President and Country Manager of Kosmos Energy, said the fishmongers association formed by the women to use the facility marked a strong first step towards future growth for the district’s fishing business.

He said: “Women in any society are central to its development and they cannot be ignored. Our support for their projects is an indication of our respect for the diverse people in our communities.”

He said a similar project was ongoing in Ekpu in the Jomorro District. Mr George Sarong, Corporate Affairs Director of Kosmos, said the company, as part of its social responsibility, would continue to affect the lives of its operating areas in a positive manner.

“Our key motivation for this project, in collaboration with the women and fisher folk in this town was to enhance their livelihood by adding value to their fish smoking business,” he said.

Mr Sarpong said the company also believed that creating a sustainable business in its operating communities was a positive catalyst in improving individual household economies.