Engaging stakeholders is crucial for ensuring that research address their needs effectively. Recognizing this, EfD Ghana invited a diverse group of possible research beneficiaries selected from the fisheries sector, regulatory agencies, banking, and insurance industry to explore innovative insurance solutions for small-scale fisheries in Ghana. The event, part of the Fishing for Insurance in Ghana's Small-Scale Fisheries project, aimed to garner valuable stakeholder input and boost the study’s relevance in enhancing the resilience and sustainability of fishermen and fish processors through innovative insurance solutions.
Wisdom Akpalu, EfD-Ghana Director, opened the workshop and emphasized the project's significance. "Fisherfolks face numerous risks in their work but often lack insurance coverage, he said. “We're investigating their perceptions of insurance and exploring innovative premium payment methods, such as rendering ecosystem management services in exchange for insurance benefits, to make coverage more accessible."
G.K Vondolia, who is the research team lead, presented project on "Insurance for Small Scale Fisheries in Ghana," providing participants with a comprehensive understanding of the project's objectives and activities as well as the importance of insurance for fisherfolks in Ghana. Enam Antonio of GIMPA introduced an initial draft of the survey instrument, which was followed by an engaging discussion co-facilitated with Wisdom Akpalu. Participants shared valuable insights and experiences, while representatives from banks and reputable insurance companies added depth to the conversations, bringing diverse perspectives crucial for advancing the study.
G.K Vondolia, who is the research team lead, presented project on "Insurance for Small Scale Fisheries in Ghana," providing participants with a comprehensive understanding of the project's objectives and activities as well as the importance of insurance for fisherfolks in Ghana. Enam Antonio of GIMPA introduced an initial draft of the survey instrument, which was followed by an engaging discussion co-facilitated with Wisdom Akpalu. Participants shared valuable insights and experiences, while representatives from banks and reputable insurance companies added depth to the conversations, bringing diverse perspectives crucial for advancing the study.
The workshop was highly productive, generating first-hand insights for the researchers. Participants shared experiences and expressed enthusiasm about the project's potential to dispel misconceptions about insurance and enhance subscription rates among fisherfolk, thereby contributing to their resilience and sustained livelihoods.
Emelia Nortey, Coordinator of the Development Action Association, a cooperative for fish processors, highlighted the need for evidence-based awareness campaigns to address misconceptions about insurance among fishmongers. She recalled a past incident where fishmongers lost their premiums when an insurer absconded, underscoring the importance of research in building trust in the sector.
Edmund Siaw Akugbe, Vice Chairman of the Ghana National Canoe Council, praised the initiative, stating, "Advocacy about fishers and insurance needs to be enhanced so that as many fishers as possible can benefit. We look forward to receiving the final report of today's meeting and participating in the project. With the right information and evidence, I believe the fisherfolk will embrace insurance."
The workshop, held on July 10, 2024 at the ISSER Conference Center, marks a significant step towards enhancing the resilience and sustainable livelihoods of Ghana's small-scale fisheries through affordable insurance solutions. By incorporating the insights and feedback gathered during this session, the research team will be better equipped to refine their survey instruments and tailor their approach to the specific needs and priorities of fishing communities, thereby advancing the objective of achieving outcomes that truly serve their target audiences.
By: Vicentia Quartey