Outspoken broadcast-journalist Blessed Godsbrain Smart, popularly known as Captain Smart, has issued a strongly worded statement expressing grave concern over the deteriorating state of the Mumford Fishing Harbour, describing the facility as an “economic lifeline” for the Gomoa West District that is being allowed to fail through silence and neglect.

In an official statement obtained by this newspaper, the Onua TV host, who has declared his intention to contest the Gomoa West parliamentary seat in the 2028 elections, lamented the current condition of the harbour, which he says is struggling to serve its intended purpose.

“The breakwater is showing serious signs of deterioration, the harbour basin appears increasingly affected by siltation, and several ancillary facilities are visibly deteriorating,” Captain Smart stated. “What was meant to be a beacon of economic transformation is gradually becoming a painful symbol of neglect.”

The aspiring Member of Parliament, who has maintained longstanding ties with the Gomoa West area, noted that the harbour project was conceived as a transformative initiative intended to boost fish landing activities, create sustainable employment opportunities, support fish processing, attract investment, and position Mumford as a major fisheries and blue economy hub.

Captain Smart however expressed disappointment over what he described as a lack of clear public communication regarding plans to address the challenges confronting the facility, adding that political leadership in the district has remained “largely quiet” for more than three years.

“This matter must not be reduced to partisan politics,” Captain Smart emphasised. “It is bigger than party colours. It is about livelihoods. It is about coastal economic justice. It is about women’s trade. It is about youth employment. It is about public investment. It is about the future of an entire fishing community.”

The media personality, who recently denied reports of illness following speculation about an alleged spiritual attack linked to his political ambitions, pledged to do “everything within my strength, influence, network and public voice to fight for the completion, rehabilitation and full operationalisation of the Mumford Fishing Harbour”.

He outlined a comprehensive plan that includes a full technical assessment of the harbour, a transparent public report, urgent desilting intervention, rehabilitation of the breakwater, and completion of critical ancillary facilities. He also called for improved fish landing infrastructure, cold storage and processing support, sanitation facilities, market linkages, safety systems, and a long-term management plan.

“As the incoming Member of Parliament for Gomoa West, I will not sit quietly while such an important project struggles,” he declared. “I will not look away while fisherfolk suffer. I will not ignore the women whose businesses depend on the harbour. I will not abandon the youth who are waiting for jobs. I will not allow Mumford’s hope to be buried under silence.”

Captain Smart’s declaration comes amid growing concerns from fisherfolk in the area. Documents indicate that fishermen in Mumford have previously called on the government to expedite completion of the harbour, citing safety risks associated with the current state of the project.

In 2004, the National Best Fisherman, Mr. Kow Kotu, lost his vessel to a storm and appealed for the construction of a breakwater in the area, noting that about three or four vessels were destroyed every year at Mumford due to the rocky nature of the shore.

The aspiring MP called for unity among residents and stakeholders in the Gomoa West District to collectively advocate for rehabilitation of the facility. He said his efforts would focus on collaboration with traditional authorities, fisherfolk, development partners, industry experts, the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, the Ministry of Transport, the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, the District Assembly, and other relevant agencies.

“The time for silence has passed,” he concluded. “The time for leadership is now. The time for action is now. And by the grace of God, with the support of the people, and with a united Gomoa West voice, the Mumford Fishing Harbour shall rise again.”