GOMOA EAST DISTRICT ASSEMBLY

GOMOA POTSIN

TITLE
PROPOSAL FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF PREMIX
FUEL STATIONS IN GOMOA FETTEH, NYANYANO, AND
DAMPAASE TO IMPROVE ACCESS AND
SUSTAINABILITY IN GHANA’S ARTISANAL FISHING
SECTOR.

BY:
GOMOA EAST DISTRICT CHIEF EXECUTIVE
(HON. MARGARET NAANA ACKOM)

13TH MAY, 2025

 Comprehensive Proposal Outline:
Title:

PROPOSAL FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF PREMIX FUEL STATIONS IN GOMOA

FETTEH, NYANYANO, AND DAMPAASE TO IMPROVE ACCESS AND
SUSTAINABILITY IN GHANA’S ARTISANAL FISHING SECTOR.
1. Executive Summary

• One-page synopsis of the proposal’s goals, problem, proposed intervention, benefits,

and financial summary.

• Brief mention of the 507, 302, and 104 canoes in Nyanyano, Fetteh, and Dampaase
respectively.

• Summary of expected impact on employment, income, and food security.

2. Introduction

• Importance of the fishing industry to Gomoa East District and Ghana’s economy.

• Role of premix fuel in sustaining artisanal fishing activities.

• Overview of the targeted communities and their economic dependence on fishing.

3. Problem Statement

• Inadequacy of monthly premix fuel supply in Nyanyano, Fetteh, and Dampaase.

• Operational disruption due to fuel shortages.

• Risks of illegal and black-market fuel acquisition.

• Strain on local economies and food security.

4. Needs Assessment

• Statistical breakdown of canoe operations:

o Nyanyano: 507

o Fetteh: 302
 o Dampaase: 104

• Estimation of premix fuel consumption per canoe/month.

• Comparison between demand and current supply volume.

• Maps and data visualizations showing gaps and trends.

• National and regional benchmarks (Central Region stats).

5. Project Objectives

• General Objective:
To improve fuel access and operational efficiency in the artisanal fishing sector in Gomoa
East.

• Specific Objectives:

o Establish 1 additional premix fuel station in Gomoa Fetteh.

o Establish 1 additional premix fuel station in Nyanyano.

o Construct a new premix fuel station in Dampaase.

o Integrate automated, transparent fuel dispensing systems.

o Reduce supply shortages by 75% within 12 months of operation.

6. Proposed Solution

• Description of infrastructure for each site:

o Fuel storage capacity (liters)

o Dispensing pumps and automation systems

o Backup generators, safety, and environmental controls

• Allocation strategy based on canoe density

• Use of ICT to track fuel usage and prevent diversion

• Collaboration with Landing Beach Committees (LBCs)

7. Implementation Plan

• Phased roll-out (e.g., site acquisition, construction, equipment installation, staff

recruitment, testing)

• Detailed timeline (e.g., Gantt chart over 12–18 months)

• Roles of key partners:

o National Premix Fuel Secretariat

o Local Fishermen Associations

o District Assembly

o Donor agencies / Investors

• Capacity-building programs for station operators

8. Monitoring and Evaluation Framework

• Key indicators:

o Monthly fuel supplied vs. monthly fuel demand

o Number of canoes served per month

o Reduction in fuel shortage reports

o Increase in fishing trips/operational hours

• Data collection tools

• Responsible M&E personnel or partner agency

• Quarterly performance reviews

9. Sustainability Plan

• Revenue model (proceeds from sales used for maintenance)

• Role of LBCs in local ownership

• Community-based station management committee

• Environmental and safety compliance

 • Digital tracking for accountability

10. Conclusion and Call to Action

• Reaffirmation of the project’s urgency and importance

• Strategic value for food security, youth employment, and coastal economic development

• Appeal for funding, partnership, and institutional backing

11. Data Sources and References

• Ghana Canoe Frame Survey

• National Premix Fuel Secretariat Reports

• ACEP (Africa Centre for Energy Policy) analysis

• Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) reports on fisheries

• FAO Ghana Fisheries Sector Performance Reviews

• Academic journals and policy briefs from ICSF and others

1.Executive Summary

The artisanal fishing industry remains a vital pillar of socio-economic development in Ghana,
particularly within coastal districts such as Gomoa East in the Central Region. Communities like
Gomoa Fetteh, Nyanyano, and Dampaase heavily rely on fishing not only for livelihood
sustenance but also for national food security and coastal employment generation. A critical input
that supports this sector is premix fuel, which powers the outboard motors of thousands of
canoes engaged in daily fishing operations.

However, the current distribution and supply chain of premix fuel in Gomoa East are significantly
inadequate and unsustainable. Data from the most recent Canoe Frame Surveys and local
assessments indicate that:

• 507 canoes operate in Nyanyano,

• 302 canoes operate in Gomoa Fetteh, and

• 104 canoes operate in Dampaase.

Despite the high level of fishing activity, these communities receive premix fuel only once a
month, a supply volume that is woefully inadequate compared to their operational demand. The
situation has led to recurring fuel shortages, reduced fishing trips, rising black-market prices, and
a general decline in income and productivity among fisherfolk. This inefficiency undermines the
goals of Ghana’s fisheries modernization agenda and directly threatens the livelihoods of
thousands of households.

In response to this pressing challenge, this proposal advocates for the establishment of three
premix fuel stations in the following configuration:

• One additional premix station in Gomoa Fetteh,

• One additional premix station in Nyanyano, and

• A new premix station in Dampaase.

The proposed project seeks to significantly improve access, reliability, and transparency in the
distribution of premix fuel in Gomoa East through the adoption of automated dispensing
systems, enhanced community management, and robust monitoring mechanisms.

This initiative aligns with national efforts to restructure and modernize Ghana’s artisanal fisheries
sector, while also contributing to SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), and SDG 14 (Life
Below Water).
Through a collaborative implementation model involving the Gomoa East District Assembly, the
National Premix Fuel Secretariat, fishermen associations, and development partners, the
project will:

• Eliminate critical supply gaps,

• Improve operational efficiency,

• Curb illegal fuel diversion, and

• Strengthen local economies across the three communities.

An estimated budget (to be detailed later) will outline the infrastructure requirements,
procurement costs, training needs, and operational logistics. Funding is expected from
government sources, fisheries development funds, and bilateral partners interested in coastal
resilience and sustainable livelihoods.

The establishment of these stations will mark a significant transformation in the way fuel is
accessed by artisanal fishers in Gomoa East, ensuring reliability, affordability, and equity in the
sector.
2. Introduction

The fisheries sector in Ghana serves as a crucial driver of employment, food security, and
economic growth, particularly for coastal communities. It is estimated that over 2 million
Ghanaians depend directly or indirectly on fisheries for their livelihoods, with artisanal fisheries
accounting for over 70% of the total fish production in the country (FAO, 2022). Within this
framework, Gomoa East District, located in the Central Region, plays a pivotal role as a coastal
economy anchored by the fishing activities in communities such as Gomoa Fetteh, Nyanyano,
and Dampaase.

Artisanal fishing in these communities is powered by canoes equipped with outboard motors,
which require premix fuel, a blend of gasoline and marine engine oil, to operate. This makes the
availability, accessibility, and affordability of premix fuel a cornerstone of sustainable fishing
operations. The Government of Ghana, through the National Premix Fuel Secretariat under the
Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, subsidizes and distributes premix fuel to
support artisanal fishers and reduce their operational costs.

Despite the importance of this initiative, the premix fuel distribution system in Gomoa East
remains highly constrained, with limited access points and erratic supply schedules. Currently,
only one consignment of premix fuel is delivered per month to these high-demand communities.
This is disproportionately low compared to the number of operating canoes:

• 507 in Nyanyano,

• 302 in Gomoa Fetteh, and

• 104 in Dampaase.

These figures, drawn from recent Canoe Frame Surveys (GSS, 2023), point to a combined fleet of
913 canoes in just three communities, all dependent on a limited and unsustainable supply
regime. The shortfall has led to chronic shortages, increased downtime, reduced fishing
expeditions, and vulnerability to exploitative black-market fuel vendors who charge well above
the subsidized rate.

As fishing is the primary source of livelihood for thousands of families in these communities, the
fuel access crisis poses a direct threat to household income, local food systems, and youth
employment. It also contradicts Ghana’s national policy drive for modernized agriculture and
fisheries, and undermines efforts to achieve global targets such as the Sustainable Development
Goals (SDGs)—especially Goal 1 (No Poverty), Goal 2 (Zero Hunger), and Goal 14 (Life Below
Water).

In light of these realities, this proposal presents a strategic solution to the fuel access deficit
through the construction of three premix fuel stations:
 • One each in Nyanyano and Fetteh (as additional facilities), and

• A new facility in Dampaase, which currently lacks any premix station.

These interventions aim to reduce fuel shortages by improving supply frequency, introducing
automated dispensing mechanisms for transparency, and empowering local communities
through participatory fuel station management.
3. Problem Statement

Fishing remains the backbone of local economic activities in Gomoa East District, especially in
the coastal communities of Nyanyano, Gomoa Fetteh, and Dampaase. These communities
collectively operate over 913 registered canoes, according to the most recent Canoe Frame
Survey (GSS, 2023). Each canoe, depending on its size and fishing route, requires a steady supply
of premix fuel to power outboard motors for daily fishing expeditions.

Despite the strategic importance of fishing to the local economy, premix fuel supply remains
grossly insufficient. These three communities currently depend on a single monthly supply of
premix fuel, which is inadequate relative to their demand. For example:

• Nyanyano’s 507 canoes often require multiple gallons per week per vessel.

• Gomoa Fetteh’s 302 canoes equally demand regular fuel access.

• Dampaase, with 104 canoes, lacks even a single local distribution point and must rely on
distant or informal sources.

This supply inadequacy has resulted in chronic fuel shortages, compelling fishers to either
reduce their fishing activities or purchase fuel at inflated black-market prices, sometimes 2 to 3
times the government-subsidized rate of GHS 25 per gallon (Pulse Ghana, 2024). This situation
contradicts the very essence of the premix fuel subsidy policy, which is meant to reduce
operational burdens on artisanal fishers.

The consequences of this dysfunctional supply system are far-reaching:

• Reduced productivity: Canoes are forced to idle due to lack of fuel, reducing the
frequency of fishing trips.

• Loss of income: With fewer fishing expeditions, households experience financial strain,
particularly during peak seasons.

• Food insecurity: Limited fish supply to local markets affects affordability and availability
of protein in the region.

• Illegal activities: Shortages have led to fuel hoarding, diversion, and black-market sales,
exacerbating inequities and corruption in distribution.

• Youth unemployment: Young people dependent on the fishing value chain face rising job
insecurity due to unpredictable operations.

Moreover, the absence of premix fuel infrastructure in Dampaase places an unfair logistical and
economic burden on fishers from that community, who must travel to neighboring towns to
access fuel—often only to face scarcity or rationing upon arrival.
This persistent challenge not only threatens the economic resilience and food security of these
coastal communities but also undermines the objectives of national policies like the Fisheries and
Aquaculture Sector Development Plan (FASDP) and the National Premix Fuel Programme.
Without decisive intervention, the artisanal fishing sector in Gomoa East risks operational
collapse, leading to poverty escalation and regional underdevelopment.

Therefore, addressing the fuel supply gap through the establishment of strategically located
and well-managed premix fuel stations is urgent, justified, and overdue. The proposed solution
must be data-driven, scalable, and aligned with sustainable community development principles.
4. Needs Assessment

To develop an effective and evidence-based intervention, a clear understanding of the actual

demand, supply capacity, and infrastructure gap surrounding premix fuel in the Gomoa East
District is critical. This section presents statistical and contextual analysis to justify the proposed
expansion of premix fuel infrastructure in the target communities: Gomoa Nyanyano, Gomoa
Fetteh, and Dampaase.

4.1. Current Canoe Operations and Fuel Demand

According to the most recent Canoe Frame Survey (Ghana Statistical Service, 2023), the three
fishing communities under consideration operate a combined total of 913 active fishing canoes,
distributed as follows:

Community Number of Canoes

Nyanyano 507

Gomoa Fetteh 302

Dampaase 104

Total 913

Each canoe requires, on average, 8 to 15 gallons of premix fuel per week, depending on its size
and the distance traveled during fishing expeditions. Using a conservative average of 10 gallons
per week per canoe, the weekly demand for the three communities is:

• Nyanyano: 507 canoes × 10 gallons = 5,070 gallons/week

• Fetteh: 302 canoes × 10 gallons = 3,020 gallons/week

• Dampaase: 104 canoes × 10 gallons = 1,040 gallons/week

Total weekly demand: 9,130 gallons/week

Total monthly demand (×4 weeks): 36,520 gallons/month

4.2. Supply Capacity vs Demand

Currently, each of these communities receives a single delivery of premix fuel per month, often
ranging between 8,000 and 10,000 gallons for all canoes combined, based on local fuel
committee reports and interviews with fishermen.

This implies a deficit of over 26,000 gallons per month, forcing fishermen to:

• Queue for hours or days for limited supplies,

 • Resort to black-market sources at non-subsidized prices (up to GHS 60/gallon),

• Reduce the number of fishing trips, and

• Compete among themselves for the little available supply.

4.3. Infrastructure Gaps

• Nyanyano and Fetteh each have one functioning premix fuel station, which is insufficient
to meet the growing demand from over 500 and 300 canoes, respectively. The limited
infrastructure leads to long waiting times, increased congestion, and system breakdowns.

• Dampaase has no premix fuel station at all, compelling its fishermen to travel to
Nyanyano or Fetteh—often in vain, due to depleted stock or rationing.

The absence of localized fuel stations has also contributed to:

• Fuel losses during transport (due to poor handling),

• Increased transportation costs,

• Conflicts and inequitable distribution at existing outlets.

4.4. Stakeholder Insights

Community leaders, Landing Beach Committees, and fisherfolk associations have repeatedly
expressed concern about:

• Inadequate monthly allocation, regardless of seasonal fishing peaks,

• Lack of transparency in distribution, and

• The urgent need for automated fuel dispensing systems to eliminate middlemen and
corruption.

4.5. Policy Alignment

This proposal aligns with:

• The National Premix Fuel Programme, which encourages decentralization and

automation.

• Ghana’s Fisheries and Aquaculture Sector Development Plan, which emphasizes

infrastructure development.

• Ghana’s Blue Economy Strategy and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which promote
inclusive and sustainable marine livelihoods.
The scale of the demand–supply mismatch, coupled with critical infrastructure gaps, clearly
establishes the urgent need for the establishment of three strategically located premix fuel
stations to serve the fishing communities of Nyanyano, Fetteh, and Dampaase.
5. Project Objectives

The overarching aim of this project is to ensure reliable, equitable, and sustainable access to
premix fuel for artisanal fishers in Gomoa East District, particularly in Gomoa Nyanyano, Gomoa
Fetteh, and Dampaase. By addressing the current deficits in fuel supply and infrastructure, the
project seeks to enhance fishing productivity, reduce economic vulnerability, and promote local
development in alignment with national and global development frameworks.

5.1. General Objective

To improve fuel access and distribution efficiency for artisanal fishing communities in Gomoa East
through the establishment of modern, community-based premix fuel stations.

5.2. Specific Objectives

1. Establish a New Premix Fuel Station in Dampaase:

o Provide localized fuel access to over 104 canoes.

o Reduce transportation burden and fuel acquisition delays for Dampaase-based

fishers.

2. Install Additional Premix Fuel Stations in Nyanyano and Fetteh:

o Expand distribution infrastructure to match the growing demand of 507 canoes

in Nyanyano and 302 canoes in Fetteh.

o Alleviate congestion and long queues at the existing fuel stations.

3. Automate Fuel Dispensing and Monitoring Systems:

o Integrate automated metering and tracking systems to reduce human

interference, corruption, and fuel diversion.

o Promote transparency, equity, and accountability in fuel distribution.

4. Enhance the Operational Capacity of Local Landing Beach Committees (LBCs):

o Train committee members in fuel station management, safety, and monitoring.

o Institutionalize best practices in community-based infrastructure governance.

5. Improve Fishers’ Productivity and Livelihoods:

o Reduce operational downtime due to fuel shortages by at least 75% within 12

months.
 o Increase the number of fishing expeditions per canoe, thereby enhancing
household income and food supply in the region.

6. Contribute to National Policy and Development Goals:

o Support the implementation of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Sector

Development Plan (FASDP).

o Align with Ghana’s Blue Economy Framework, National Premix Fuel Programme,
and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—notably:

▪ SDG 1: No Poverty

▪ SDG 2: Zero Hunger

▪ SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

▪ SDG 14: Life Below Water

6. Proposed Solution

To resolve the persistent premix fuel shortages and supply inefficiencies in Gomoa East’s key
fishing communities—Nyanyano, Fetteh, and Dampaase—this project proposes the construction
and operationalization of three fully equipped premix fuel stations. The approach combines
infrastructure development, technological integration, and community-based management to
ensure equitable access, efficiency, and sustainability.

5.1. Establishment of Premix Fuel Stations

a. New Premix Fuel Station in Dampaase

• Justification: With 104 operating canoes and no existing fuel station, Dampaase fishers
are forced to travel to other towns for fuel, increasing cost and time loss.

• Solution: Construct a fully functional station with:

o A 10,000-liter underground fuel tank

o 2 high-capacity automated dispensing units

o Fire and environmental safety systems

o Solar-powered lighting for night operations

b. Additional Premix Fuel Stations in Nyanyano and Fetteh

• Justification: Existing stations in Nyanyano (507 canoes) and Fetteh (302 canoes) are
overwhelmed, resulting in long queues, frequent rationing, and inefficient distribution.

• Solution: Establish:

o One extra 10,000–15,000 liter-capacity station in each community

o Automated metering and digital monitoring systems

o Separate dispensing lanes for different canoe categories (small vs. large)

6.2. Automation and Transparency Mechanisms

• Install digital dispensing meters to track exact fuel disbursement to each canoe

• Introduce prepaid digital cards or biometric validation for verified fishers

• Real-time reporting to the National Premix Fuel Secretariat

• Display electronic dashboards to ensure public accountability

6.3. Operational Management

• Operated by strengthened Landing Beach Committees (LBCs) with:

o Financial training

o Safety and fuel stock monitoring

• Proceeds from sales to fund:

o Maintenance of the facility

o Community infrastructure (e.g., nets, cold storage)

o Emergency reserves for peak seasons

6.4. Environmental and Safety Measures

• Comply with EPA Ghana regulations for fuel station operations

• Install:

o Spill containment systems

o Fire extinguishing equipment

o Ventilation and protective fencing

• Conduct regular environmental audits and compliance checks

6.5. Community Integration and Engagement

• Sensitize fishers on fair fuel usage, safety, and anti-corruption reporting

• Establish Community Fuel Monitoring Committees including:

o Elders

o Youth representatives

o Women’s fish processing groups

The proposed solution will address the current structural gaps in fuel distribution by:

• Expanding capacity to meet growing demand,

• Reducing travel time and logistical stress, especially in Dampaase,

• Enhancing transparency through automation,

• And strengthening local governance through LBC capacity-buildin

7. Implementation Plan

The successful execution of the proposed premix fuel infrastructure project in Nyanyano, Fetteh,
and Dampaase requires a phased, collaborative, and well-monitored approach. The plan
integrates physical construction, stakeholder engagement, capacity-building, and system
integration into a 12-month implementation timeline, ensuring timely delivery and community
ownership.

7.1. Project Phases and Timeline

Phase Activity Duration Responsible Parties

Phase Site identification, land acquisition, Month 1 Gomoa East District

1 and environmental assessment Assembly, EPA, Traditional
Authorities

Phase Architectural and engineering design Month 2 District Planning Unit,

2 Engineers

Phase Procurement of materials and Month 3–4 Project Procurement

3 equipment Committee, MoFAD

Phase Construction and installation of Month 4–8 Local contractors, Premix Fuel
4 infrastructure Secretariat

Phase Installation of automated dispensing Month 7–9 Tech vendors, IT consultants

5 and monitoring systems

Phase Recruitment and training of fuel Month 8–9 Training consultants, LBCs
6 station operators and LBCs

Phase Pilot testing and system verification Month 10 National Premix Fuel
7 Secretariat, Local Committees

Phase Full operational launch and public Month 11– Assembly, Fisheries
8 sensitization 12 Associations, Community
Leaders
7.2. Roles and Responsibilities

Stakeholder Role

Gomoa East District Assembly Local project oversight, land allocation, inter-agency
coordination

National Premix Fuel Secretariat Technical support, equipment provision, automation

(NPFS) compliance

Environmental Protection Agency Environmental auditing, permitting, and compliance

(EPA) monitoring

Landing Beach Committees (LBCs) Operational management, community liaison, reporting

Fishermen Associations Feedback mechanisms, usage monitoring, anti-

diversion enforcement

Private Contractors Construction, fuel tank installation, system setup

ICT Partners Automated system installation, real-time monitoring

configuration

Donor/Development Partners Funding support, independent auditing, impact

evaluation

7.3. Training and Capacity-Building

Before full operations, all personnel involved in station management will undergo:

• Technical training on fuel handling, safety, and equipment maintenance

• ICT training on operating and monitoring the automated dispensing system

• Financial management training for transparent revenue collection and recordkeeping

• Anti-corruption and ethics training in collaboration with the Commission on Human

Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ)

A training-of-trainers (ToT) approach will be used to ensure skills are retained and transferrable
within the community.

7.4. Community Sensitization and Engagement

 • Public town hall meetings will be held before and after the installation phase.

• Local media and information centers will be used to:

o Educate fishers on how to access fuel fairly and safely

o Promote anti-hoarding and anti-diversion practices

o Clarify how revenue from fuel sales contributes to community development

7.5. Risk Mitigation Strategy

Risk Mitigation Strategy

Construction delays Early contractor procurement, community oversight

Political interference in LBC Establishment of non-partisan Fuel Monitoring

operations Committees

Fuel diversion and fraud Use of automated meters, prepaid cards, and audit trails

Environmental hazard Full EPA compliance, installation of spill prevention and

fire systems

Community resistance or apathy Continuous sensitization, inclusion of all stakeholder

groups
8. Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Framework

An effective Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) framework is essential to track the performance,
ensure transparency, and measure the impact of the premix fuel station project across Nyanyano,
Fetteh, and Dampaase. The M&E strategy will be designed to align with national reporting
standards and international best practices in infrastructure and community-based development
projects.

8.1. M&E Objectives

• To ensure that project activities are implemented according to schedule and standards.

• To track the quantity, frequency, and efficiency of premix fuel distribution.

To measure the socio-economic impact on fishermen, households, and community

development.

• To detect challenges early and provide timely corrective interventions.

• To document lessons learned for future replication or scaling.

8.2. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Indicator Description Target Data Source

Number of fuel Physical infrastructure 3 stations Site reports,

stations established built and operational photos

Monthly premix fuel Quantity of fuel ≥ 12,000 gallons per Dispensing

supply volume received and dispensed community/month meter data
per station

Reduction in fuel Frequency of ≥ 75% reduction Community

shortage complaints unavailability reports surveys, LBC logs
from fishers

Average waiting Time spent per canoe ≤ 30 minutes Observation &

time for fuel access accessing fuel time logs

Increase in fishing No. of operational trips ≥ 20% increase Fisherfolk

trips per canoe per canoe monthly records
 Revenue generated Amount collected and GHS 100,000+ quarterly Station accounts
from fuel sales reinvested

Number of trained Capacity building for ≥ 30 trained Training reports

LBC members fuel station managers
and staff

Proportion of fuel Usage of digital systems 100% IT system

accessed via for fuel access records
automation

8.3. M&E Activities and Timeline

Activity Frequency Responsible Body

Baseline data collection Before project District Assembly / M&E

implementation Officer

Mid-term performance review Month 6 Independent Evaluator /

NPFS

Real-time digital monitoring Continuous ICT Platform / NPFS

Monthly fuel usage reports Monthly LBCs / Fuel Station

Managers

Quarterly community feedback Quarterly District Assembly / CSOs

forums

Endline evaluation Month 12 External M&E Consultant

8.4. Reporting Mechanism

• Monthly Reports: Generated by the fuel station operators and submitted to the District
Assembly and National Premix Fuel Secretariat.

• Quarterly Progress Reports: Shared with all stakeholders, including funding partners and
traditional leaders.

• Annual Evaluation Report: To be published and made publicly available, highlighting

performance, impact, and future recommendations.
8.5. Feedback and Accountability Structures

• Community Scorecards: Fishers will rate service quality and fairness monthly.

• Suggestion Boxes and Hotline Numbers: Installed at each station to report concerns or
fuel diversion.

• Public Dashboards: Display fuel stock levels and disbursement records for transparency.

8.6. M&E Governance Structure

• District-Level M&E Committee chaired by the District Coordinating Director.

• Technical support from the National Premix Fuel Secretariat’s Monitoring Unit.

• Periodic audits by independent firms or donor-nominated consultants.

9. Sustainability Strategy

The long-term success of the proposed premix fuel stations in Gomoa Nyanyano, Fetteh, and
Dampaase depends on a robust and multi-dimensional sustainability strategy. This section
outlines mechanisms to ensure that the infrastructure, systems, and services established through
the project continue to operate efficiently, equitably, and autonomously after the initial funding
and implementation phases.

9.1. Financial Sustainability

a. Revenue Generation Model

Each station will operate under the regulated National Premix Fuel Secretariat (NPFS) pricing
structure, with proceeds from fuel sales reinvested in:

• Regular maintenance of dispensing equipment and tanks

• Salaries and training for station staff

• Expansion of service coverage and community support projects

b. Dedicated Community Development Account (CDA)

As per national policy, 53% of premix fuel sales revenue will be deposited into a Community
Development Account, managed transparently by the Landing Beach Committee (LBC). This
account will be audited quarterly and used to fund:

• Fishing inputs (nets, ropes, hooks)

• Educational bursaries for fisherfolk’s children

• Sanitation and minor infrastructure projects

9.2. Institutional Sustainability

a. Strengthening of Landing Beach Committees (LBCs)

Each station will be managed by a well-trained and structured LBC, supported by:

• Leadership and governance training

• Financial literacy programs

• Digital fuel inventory training

 • Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

b. Regulatory Oversight and Partnership

Ongoing technical and policy support will be provided by:

• National Premix Fuel Secretariat (NPFS)

• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

• Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) for equipment safety standards

9.3. Operational Sustainability

a. Preventive Maintenance Plan

Every fuel station will adhere to a quarterly maintenance schedule covering:

• Calibration and servicing of automated dispensers

• Cleaning and inspection of tanks and filters

• Fire prevention and environmental safety reviews

b. Spare Parts Reserve and Vendor Partnership

Contracts with certified vendors will ensure quick replacement of faulty parts and periodic
system upgrades.

c. Staffing Continuity
The project will recruit local youth, trained through a Train-the-Trainer (ToT) model, to ensure
human capital continuity and cost-saving.

9.4. Technological Sustainability

a. ICT Infrastructure
The automation systems (fuel meters, tracking software, dashboards) will be open-source and
cloud-backed, reducing long-term software dependency. Local IT volunteers will be trained to
support updates and troubleshoot issues.

b. Digital Literacy
A strong digital onboarding program will be instituted for all fuel station personnel and LBC
executives, ensuring continued and effective use of the system.
9.5. Community Ownership and Engagement

a. Social Accountability Tools

• Installation of suggestion boxes, community scorecards, and public notice boards

• Hosting quarterly townhall meetings to solicit feedback and discuss financial statements

b. Gender and Inclusion Strategy

Women involved in fish processing and youth groups will be represented in the Fuel Oversight
Committees and trained to monitor distribution and service equity.

9.6. Environmental Sustainability

• Full compliance with EPA safety and waste disposal guidelines

• Use of solar-powered lighting and backup energy systems

• Establishment of fuel spill response protocols and emergency training

10. Conclusion and Call to Action

The fisheries sector remains a cornerstone of Ghana’s coastal economy, contributing to

employment, nutrition, and socio-cultural stability for millions. In the Gomoa East District,
communities such as Nyanyano, Fetteh, and Dampaase heavily depend on artisanal fishing as
their primary livelihood source. However, the current state of premix fuel access—marked by
limited supply, inadequate infrastructure, and operational bottlenecks—poses a direct threat to
the sector’s viability and the welfare of over 900 canoe owners and their households.

This proposal has provided a comprehensive, data-driven, and solution-oriented plan to

construct:

• One new premix fuel station in Dampaase, and

• One additional premix fuel station each in Nyanyano and Fetteh.

The strategy encompasses not only physical infrastructure but also automation, transparency
mechanisms, community engagement, capacity-building, and sustainability planning. With over
36,000 gallons of monthly demand currently unmet, the intervention is not only timely but also
crucial for ensuring consistent fishing activities, safeguarding incomes, and promoting food
security in the district.

What is at Stake?

• Hundreds of fishermen unable to operate consistently

• Increased youth unemployment

• Loss of revenue to black-market operators

• Erosion of trust in public fuel distribution mechanisms

• Reduced protein availability in local markets

By implementing the proposed intervention:

• Canoe operators will enjoy reliable, equitable, and transparent access to subsidized
premix fuel.

• The Gomoa East District will emerge as a model coastal economy, advancing Ghana’s
vision of a modernized, resilient, and inclusive blue economy.

• The initiative will support the realization of key national and global development
priorities, particularly SDGs 1, 2, 8, and 14.
Call to Action

We respectfully call upon:

• The Government of Ghana, particularly the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture

Development, to provide policy and financial support.

• The National Premix Fuel Secretariat to prioritize Gomoa East in its infrastructure and
reform initiatives.

• Development partners, donors, and blue economy investors to consider this initiative for
co-financing and technical collaboration.

• The Gomoa East District Assembly and Traditional Authorities to lead in facilitating land,
community sensitization, and implementation oversight.

Together, we can empower these fishing communities with the tools they need to grow, sustain,
and transform their livelihoods for current and future generations.
11. References (APA Style)

• Africa Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP). (2023). Resolving the challenges of premix fuel: A
review of Ghana’s premix fuel supply chain. Retrieved from https://acep.africa

• FAO. (2022). Ghana Fisheries Country Profile. Food and Agriculture Organization of the
United Nations. Retrieved from https://www.fao.org

• Ghana Statistical Service (GSS). (2023). Canoe Frame Survey Report: Central Region.

• Ghana News Agency. (2024). Premix fuel shortage hitting coastal communities. Retrieved
from https://www.gna.org.gh

• Pulse Ghana. (2024). Price of premix fuel increased from GHS10 to GHS25 per gallon.
Retrieved from https://www.pulse.com.gh

• National Premix Fuel Secretariat. (2022). Annual Report on Premix Fuel Distribution and
Compliance in Ghana.

• Environmental Protection Agency Ghana (EPA). (2021). Guidelines for Fuel Handling and
Marine Fuel Station Construction.

• United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). (2020). Blue Economy and Sustainable
Development in Africa