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A devastating crisis has gripped the fishing community of Kamgbunli, a predominantly Muslim settlement in the Ellembelle District of the Western Region with a mysterious river disease wreaking havoc.
Following this unpleasant development, fishermen, fishmongers, and residents are in a state of despair as the disease ravages their catches, leaving the fish unfit for human consumption and unsellable.
This alarming situation has not only disrupted fishing activities but has also plunged the community into economic turmoil, with many struggling to make ends meet.
They are appealing for authorities to investigate the source of the disease and take immediate steps to save their livelihoods.
For months, fishermen along the Ebi River have observed disturbing changes in their catches. Fish are now exhibiting severe skin infections, characterized by swollen, red lesions that worsen into open wounds. The affected fish are rejected at markets, dealing a heavy financial blow to the fishermen.
Angel News reporter, Nana Fynn embarked on an investigation of the issue at hand by joining the fishermen on a fishing expedition along the Ebi River.
He discovered that, unlike sea fishing, these fishermen rely on wire mesh traps strategically placed to capture various fish species.
During the expedition, two alarming issues were uncovered: A potent, unbearable stench emanates from the river, making the environment intolerable. Again, the water’s discoloration has intensified, raising fears of possible chemical contamination or pollution.
In an effort to address the growing crisis, traditional leaders have imposed a temporary ban on fishing activities in the Fia, Ebi, and Amanzule rivers.
This ban is intended to facilitate thorough investigations by relevant stakeholders and ensure the safety of the community.
Shaibu Abdullah Issaka, a resident, revealed that he had unknowingly purchased some of the affected fish but is currently unsure of what to do as he fears the consequences of either consuming or discarding the fish.
Fishmongers, who depend on the fishermen’s catches, are also reeling from the crisis and lament the significant losses they’ve incurred and are calling on stakeholders to expedite their investigations.
For many, their very survival hinges on a resolution to this mysterious disease amid residents who are caught in a web of uncertainty and fear.
Dr. Augustine Amoako, the Ellembelle District Health Director reacting to the matter has noted the urgency of identifying the cause of the disease, citing concerns about its impact on human health and the broader ecosystem.
Meanwhile, the Western Regional Fisheries Commission has yet to collect samples of the affected fish and river water for analysis. This delay has deepened the community’s anxiety, with residents and fishermen alike unsure of what the future holds.
As the mystery surrounding the disease persists, the livelihoods and health of Kamgbunli’s fishing community remain in jeopardy and demand an urgent need for coordinated action from health, environmental, and fisheries authorities.
However, without swift intervention, the community risks long-term economic collapse and potential health hazards.
