Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia announced the government's plan to introduce solar-powered outboard motors to solve premix fuel issues for fishermen in Ghana. These solar-powered motors will reduce the reliance on premix fuel and provide a sustainable and long-term solution.
Introduction of Solar-Powered Outboard Motors
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has announced a bold new plan to address the long-standing premix fuel problems facing fisherfolk in Ghana. Speaking in Saltpond, Central Region, Dr. Bawumia revealed that the government will soon introduce solar-powered outboard motors as a permanent solution.
The introduction of these solar-powered motors is expected to help fishermen move away from the heavy reliance on premix fuel, which has been a significant issue for years. During his campaign tour in the Mfantseman constituency, Dr. Bawumia expressed his frustration with the recurring challenges surrounding the supply of premix fuel.
Despite past efforts to address the issue, including the installation of automated premix fuel dispensing machines, problems persist. The Vice President emphasized the need for a lasting solution, which he believes can be achieved through the use of solar-powered technology.
Benefits of Solar-Powered Motors
The new solar-powered outboard motors will eliminate the need for fishermen to rely on premix fuel, which has been prone to shortages and inefficiencies. According to Dr. Bawumia, these motors will use solar energy to charge batteries.
The innovation allows the fishermen to operate their boats as long as the sun is shining. This will not only make their work more sustainable, but also cut down on the costs associated with purchasing fuel.
Dr. Bawumia outlined plans to pilot the solar-powered outboard motors starting next month. The pilot phase will demonstrate how the motors work and allow the fishermen to become familiar with the new technology.
“Before the end of this year, we will begin the pilot programme for solar-powered outboard motors,” Dr. Bawumia stated. “We will show the fisherfolk how the motors operate, and they will no longer need to worry about buying premix fuel.”
Tackling Fraud in Premix Fuel Distribution
Dr. Bawumia also mentioned that the move to solar-powered outboard motors will help eliminate the fraud and corruption associated with the distribution of premix fuel. For years, issues of fraud, known locally as "kululu," have plagued the premix fuel system.
With the introduction of solar-powered motors, the need for premix fuel will be completely eliminated, removing the opportunity for such fraud to continue. This innovative technology is expected to create lasting change and provide a permanent solution to the age-old premix fuel problems.
Engagement with Fisherfolk
“We are going to meet with the fishermen in the coming weeks to discuss the details of the plan. Once they start using the solar-powered motors, there will no longer be any need for premix fuel, and this will solve the problem,” Dr. Bawumia said.
The Vice-President assured the fishermen that the government is committed to making the new technology available to them and that the pilot programme will begin in a matter of weeks.
The switch to solar-powered outboard motors is a game-changer for Ghana's fishing communities. It promises to provide a more sustainable and environmentally friendly solution to the challenges they have faced for years.
In addition to reducing their dependence on expensive and unreliable fuel, the solar-powered motors will allow the fishermen to continue their work without worrying about fuel shortages or price fluctuations.
Dr. Bawumia’s announcement signals a new era for Ghana's fishing industry, where technology and sustainability will play a crucial role in improving the livelihoods of fisherfolk. As the pilot phase begins, fishermen across the country will soon be able to experience the benefits of solar-powered outboard motors firsthand.