Authorities have launched an investigation into the discovery of dead fish within the slipway of the Tema Shipyard enclave, raising concerns about possible environmental and public health implications.
The incident, which involved several dead fish—mainly of the Sardinella aurita species—was detected on Monday, April 6, 2026, during a routine sanitation exercise by the Port Health Unit.
Discovery during routine inspection
The Head of the Port Health Unit in Tema, under the Public Health Division of the Ghana Health Service, Hajia Jajatu Soale, said two officers on duty—Richard Agongo and Samuel Gyamfi—were alerted by security personnel to the presence of dead fish along the slipway.
She explained that the officers, who were conducting a routine inspection, confirmed the situation and immediately escalated the matter.
Coordinated multi-agency response
Hajia Soale said she promptly initiated coordination by notifying the Harbour Master and the shipyard’s Health and Safety Manager, in line with the One Health operational approach.
She added that key institutions, including the Food and Drugs Authority, Environmental Protection Agency, Fisheries Commission and the Marine Police, were subsequently engaged to support a comprehensive response.
“This sequence of actions ensured that all critical agencies were informed promptly and that the response was structured, interdisciplinary, and aligned with established public health protocols,” she said.
Officials from the various agencies later visited the site and collected samples of the dead fish for laboratory analysis to determine the cause of the mortality.
Clean-up and containment measures
To prevent any potential public health risk, the affected area was secured to restrict access to the fish.
Hajia Soale said the Port Health Unit returned to the site the following day with logistics, including a pickup vehicle, tools and hired labour, to carry out a clean-up exercise. She added that the unit bore the cost of the operation.
In collaboration with shipyard authorities, the dead fish were subsequently collected and disposed of at an approved waste site.
Shipyard distances itself
The Chief Executive Officer of PSC Tema Shipyard, Alhaji Osman Sulemana, dismissed suggestions linking the incident to the operations of the facility.
“This is an unfortunate incident, but it has nothing to do with the shipyard. We do not undertake any form of fishing activity here, nor do we sell fish,” he stated.
He explained that the fish were likely washed ashore, particularly at the slipway, which serves as a natural collection point due to sea currents.
While acknowledging public concern, he noted that although minor occurrences may happen occasionally, the scale of the latest incident is unusual.
Further investigations ongoing
Meanwhile, a team from the Environmental Protection Agency, led by Aquaculture Desk Officer Helina S. Dodd, has also collected fish and water samples for further analysis.
She assured the public that there is currently no immediate cause for alarm but indicated that definitive conclusions would depend on laboratory findings.
Source:
www.graphic.com.gh