Youth appeals for government intervention to ensure job safety in Shai Osudoku

Youth in the Shai Osudoku District of Accra has appealed to government to deploy security personnel to ensure job safety for economic development. The youth said there had been rampant theft cases and vandalism at selected companies which were causing fear and panic among hardworking youths. In a statement copied to the Ghana News Agency in Accra, the youth said the recent incident that called for the appeal was on the China Fujian Fishing (Gh) Limited, a fish farming company, which has over 600 youth employed. It said despite its security measures the company has been facing persistent threats from some individuals in the community, leading to substantial financial losses. It said China Fujian Fishing (Gh) Limited had invested heavily in Ghana’s aquaculture sector. The company operates over 2,000 cages of fish breeding, a hatchery, a nursery pond, and a fish feed factory, producing an estimated 15,000 tons of fish and 40,000 tons of feed annually. The statement said beyond business, the company played a significant role in the local economy, employing over 600 individuals and contributing to community development through training programmes, educational visits, and sustainable fishing initiatives. However, “its continued existence is under severe threat due to a surge in criminal activities targeting its operations”. It said organized groups, often operating under the cover of darkness, had been repeatedly, raiding the farm, stealing fish and vandalizing nets and equipment. It said several materials and equipments, which aid in the production had been destroyed and stolen causing financial losses to the company. “Employees have reported increased anxiety and fear, with security personnel facing direct attacks from the criminals”, the statement said. It said the company, as one of the largest employers in the area, was now experiencing low productivity leading to the loss of jobs and closure of the company. “The decline in its operations threatens job security for hundreds of workers and their families”, it added. Additionally, it said the farm played a crucial role in Ghana’s food security by supplying affordable, high-quality fish to local markets, hence, a reduction in production would negatively impact access to protein-rich food, particularly for vulnerable populations. The company called on government, local authorities, and community leaders to take immediate action to curb the rising criminal activities. It appealed for enhanced security measures, deployment of additional security personnel to protect the farm’s assets and workforce. It urged community collaboration to engage with local leaders and residents to find long-term solutions to prevent theft and vandalism. GNA