The Ghana National Canoe Fishermen Council (GNC) has called for “more surveillance” on the country’s waters and landing beaches by the marine police in order to clamp down on people who may want to enter the country illegally through such unapproved roots in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the Council, with the ban on flights and the extended closure of the country’s borders and since fishers are still allowed to work during this period, people may resort to the use of water bodies like the sea to enter the country.

In a statement by the Council signed by its National Executive Member, Nana Joojo Solomon on Wednesday, 8 April 2020, the GNC urged “artisanal fishers in the country to report people who will try to use the landing beaches across the country as their transit point” and entreated fishers to complement the efforts of “government to avoid the further spread” of the deadly virus and “safeguard the livelihood of coastal communities to avoid poverty, hunger and unrest.”

The Council urged government to ensure “more surveillance by the marine police on the country’s waters and landing beaches in order to clamp down on people who may want to illegally enter the country through these unapproved roots.”

It also reminded all fishers of the call by the World Health Organisation (WHO), “on all fishers to observe the precautionary measures rolled out” including “regular and thorough hand washing with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitiser for at least 20 seconds, maintain at least 2 metres (6 feet) distance between yourself and anyone else. As much as possible, limit contact with people outside your family. Also avoid touching of eyes, nose and mouth. Make sure you, and the people around you, follow good respiratory hygiene.”

The GNC further emphasised the need for people to “stay home if you do not have any urgent task to do in town to avoid the spread of the virus. It is also important to stay home if you feel unwell. If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention and call in advance.”