Africa Centre of Excellence in Coastal Resilience, University of Cape Coast, Ghana

The Africa Centre of Excellence in Coastal Resilience (ACECoR) at the University of Cape Coast, Ghana, is a recognized Centre of Excellence by the World Bank since 2019. It provides capacity building, applied research, and extension services to coastal communities, focusing on demand-driven capacity building, applied research, and extension services. The Centre also conducts collaborative research on coastal zone issues in Ghana, focusing on monitoring ecosystem health for conservation and sustainable resource use. It also engages in policy-relevant research related to fisheries management and governance issues within coastal communities. The Centre also designs professional courses to enhance the technical and leadership capacities of professionals working on coastal issues. It also strengthens inter-agency collaboration for sustainable management of fisheries and coastal resources.

Advancing Policy Coherence: Aligning National Fisheries and Aquaculture Policies with the PFRS

Under the FishGov2 Project, ACECoR led a consultancy aimed at harmonizing national fisheries and aquaculture policies with the Policy Framework and Reform Strategy for Fisheries and Aquaculture in Africa (PFRS). The initiative covered 15 African Union Member States and delivered transformative support to eight countries (notably Madagascar, DR Congo, Zimbabwe, Zambia, South Sudan, Liberia, Burkina Faso and Central Africa Republic), marking a significant step toward cohesive and sustainable governance in the fisheries and aquaculture sector. The consultancy involved a comprehensive review of existing fisheries and aquaculture policies, stakeholder engagement, technical support, and policy alignment support. Key outcomes included targeted support for eight countries, enhanced policy coherence, and capacity strengthening. The initiative has advanced the fisheries and aquaculture governance agenda in Africa by fostering sustainable practices, strengthening regional integration, and enhancing global competitiveness. The consultancy underscores the importance of harmonized policy frameworks in achieving sustainable development in the fisheries and aquaculture sector.

Amplifying the Voices of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in Fisheries and Aquaculture Governance

Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in Africa face unique challenges in fisheries and aquaculture governance, including climate change impacts, limited access to resources, and limited access to markets. The FishGov2 Project commissioned the ACECoR, to conduct a consultancy to identify these issues, develop strategic positions, and propose actionable recommendations for establishing or strengthening a dedicated platform for these nations. The consultancy employed a participatory and evidence-based methodology, including a needs assessment, stakeholder consultations, strategic position development, recommendations and frameworks, and knowledge product development. The results have catalyzed momentum towards addressing the unique challenges of SIDS by promoting collective action, enhancing policy coherence, and building resilience. The ACECoR consultancy has illuminated the path toward a stronger, more resilient future for SIDS in Africa, ensuring sustainable growth and resilience in Africa's blue economy.

Bridging Global Commitments with Local Action by Domesticating Fisheries and Aquaculture Instruments

ACECoR was commissioned to develop mechanisms to facilitate the domestication of global instruments in fisheries and aquaculture across Africa. The consultancy adopted a structured approach, including a policy and institutional review, stakeholder engagement, mechanism development, and knowledge product creation. The consultancy achieved significant milestones, including a comprehensive study, validated frameworks, and knowledge products. The impact of the consultancy is to enhance alignment, build capacity, and foster collaboration. This work represents a critical step in aligning Africa's fisheries and aquaculture sector with global sustainability goals, ensuring a thriving blue economy for future generations. The transformative potential of strategic interventions, where global ambitions meet local action, drives sustainable development across Africa.