Tabitha Alimo
The great hammerhead and scalloped hammerhead sharks are evolutionary distinct, globally endangered (EDGE), and classified as Critically endangered due to severely depleted populations in their range. The species have undergone >80% depletion globally in three generations. The coastal waters of Ghana are believed to hold a significant population of the species.
Modified J- shaped Hook gear for capturing sharks along the Eastern coastline of Ghana. © Samuel Lomotey
However, illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing practices and demand for species products pose significant threats to its sustainability. Additionally, the lack of trend and harvest data from Ghana hampers the development and implementation of strategies to ensure the persistence of the species. The IUCN recommends key conservation interventions in priority countries, including Ghana. This project will implement such priority recommendations.
The project will organize workshops to train fishers within the study area on shark-safe release protocols, engage key stakeholders to devise management strategies to reduce the species mortality, and provide data on the historical trend and catch abundance of the species using face-to-face interviews, focus group discussions, and field surveys. In addition, fishermen, fish traders, and some community members will be educated on the plight and urgent conservation of the hammerhead sharks within the range.
Header: Hammerhead sharks landings survey along the Eastern coastline of Ghana. © Tabitha Alimo