By: Clarence Briggs
BUCHANAN, Grand Bassa County – Fishmongers in Buchanan City have raised concerns over escalating fish prices and alleged discriminatory practices at the city’s fishing beach, warning that the situation is threatening their livelihoods and limiting their ability to sustain their businesses.
The traders say the rising cost of fish has made it increasingly difficult to purchase sufficient quantities for resale. They attribute some of the price increases to declining fish catches, explaining that limited supplies often result in higher prices and increased competition among buyers.
However, the fishmongers say their challenges extend beyond the cost of fish. They have also accused some Fanti fishermen operating in Buchanan of allegedly refusing to sell their catches to Liberian women traders, a practice they believe is creating unequal opportunities within the local fishing trade.
According to the affected traders, the alleged restrictions on access to fish supplies have negatively affected their daily sales, reduced their income, and made it more difficult for them to meet their household responsibilities.
They are therefore urging the Ministry of Agriculture, fisheries authorities, and relevant local stakeholders to intervene and investigate the concerns, particularly the allegations of unequal treatment in the distribution and sale of fish.
The traders are also calling for measures that would promote transparency, fair competition, and equal access to available fish supplies, regardless of traders’ nationality or background.
The growing concerns have placed a spotlight on the need for stronger oversight of Buchanan’s fishing market, particularly in ensuring that local traders are not unfairly disadvantaged in accessing fish for commercial purposes.
However, the allegations have not been independently verified. The fishermen accused of the alleged practice and the relevant fisheries authorities were not reached for their responses before publication.
