President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed government’s commitment to protecting vulnerable coastal communities after visiting areas affected by recent tidal waves.
The President toured Fuveme and the Blekusu Phase II sea defence project on Wednesday, April 29. The visit followed reports that the sea had breached parts of the coastline, raising concerns among residents.
Mr Mahama said the visit was necessary to assess the situation firsthand. He noted that authorities received reports of the sea breaking through sections of the coast, prompting urgent attention.
The affected areas fall under the West Africa Coastal Areas Project, a World Bank-supported programme designed to address coastal erosion and flooding across the region.
The project, valued at about $150 million, will cover key parts of Ghana’s eastern coastline. These include Ketu South and sections of Anloga, where communities face constant threats from tidal waves.
Mr Mahama highlighted previous efforts to protect coastal areas. He mentioned projects such as the Akplewo–Torkor sea defence and the historic Keta Sea Defence Project, initiated under Jerry John Rawlings.
He also pointed to the completion of the Blekusu Phase I project and ongoing work on Phase II. These efforts form part of a broader plan to reduce the impact of coastal erosion.
The WACA project will combine engineering and environmental solutions. Planned measures include sea defence walls and groynes to reduce wave impact. The project will also promote nature-based approaches such as planting coconut trees to stabilise the coastline.
Mangrove restoration will also play a key role. These ecosystems help protect coastal communities by reducing the strength of tidal waves and preventing further land loss.
Mr Mahama acknowledged that progress slowed in 2024 due to the election cycle. However, he assured residents that work has resumed under the current administration.
He said feasibility studies have been completed and the project is now at the design stage. Procurement will follow, leading to full construction.
The President expressed confidence that work will begin soon. He said the project will bring long-term relief to affected communities.
He also addressed concerns about funding. According to him, the $150 million allocated for the project remains secured through the World Bank.
Mr Mahama assured residents that the funds are protected and the project will move forward as planned.
