GENERAL

MoFAD bans import of tilapia, ornamental fishes
The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development (MoFAD) has placed a ban on the importation of all ornamental fishes and tilapia species both live and dead effective July 1, to December 31, 2018.

Date Created : 6/27/2018 8:17:11 AM : Story Author : Ghanadistricts.com

The ban also affects the import of gametes-eggs and milt.

In a press release signed by the Acting Chief Director of MoFAD, Professor Francis K. E. Nunoo said the ban is in response to cases of Tilapia Lake Virus (TiLV); a new emerging virus that is associated with significant mortalities in farmed tilapia, that has been reported across Africa, Asia, and South America, adding that the virus represents a huge risk to the global tilapia industry.

"This means all countries should be vigilant and act quickly to investigate cases of mortalities in farms".

The ban according to the statement is one of the immediate actions taken by the Ministry to help prevent and control the virus since its treatment is not known.

MoFAD therefore assured that it will improve capacity and awareness creation at different levels to farmers, hatchery operators, extension officers, and consumers as well as the general public to support implementation of simple farm level biosecurity programmes.

It therefore advised the consumers and other stakeholders to report any issues arising or related to this new development.

MoFAD also assured of more updates on the issue in due course