Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has announced plans to lead a sensitization tour on the use of solar-powered outboard motors in Tema, Greater Accra Region, on Wednesday, December 4, 2024.
The initiative follows the success of a pilot project aimed at introducing solar-powered outboard motors as a sustainable alternative to traditional motors reliant on premix fuel. The program seeks to improve operational efficiency and reduce costs for fishermen.
Speaking at an engagement at the Ga Mantse’s Palace, Dr. Bawumia highlighted the positive impact of the initiative, stressing how it could significantly reduce expenses for fishermen.
He described the policy as a progressive solution to the challenges faced by the fishing community, aligning with the government’s broader goals of promoting sustainable practices and economic empowerment in the sector.
The upcoming tour will provide fishermen with an opportunity to learn more about the advantages and functionality of solar-powered outboard motors, reaffirming the government’s commitment to enhancing the livelihoods of coastal communities.
“All of you have seen that we have built the James Town Habour, and that is going to help the fishing community. But our fishermen have a problem with premix fuel.
“So, I came up with this new idea that because of the corruption involved in the premix distribution, let us move away from premix fuel and go for solar power to power the outboard motors. So, our fishermen don’t have to buy premix fuel anymore.
“When the sun is shining, they have their fuel. So, we brought in the solar-powered outboard motors, and some have begun.
“We did it Apam and on Wednesday; we are going to bring all the chief fishermen and we will demonstrate so that everybody will see how they work. We believe that it will make the fishermen very rich because they don’t have to spend a lot of money on fuel anymore,” he stated.
