President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to protecting vulnerable coastal communities as he cut sod for Phase II of the Blekusu Coastal Protection Project in the Volta Region.
Addressing traditional leaders and residents during the ceremony in Blekusu, President Mahama described the project as a direct response to the devastation caused by tidal waves in communities such as Blekusu, Agavedzi, Salakope, Amutinu, and Adina.
“The sea has taken a lot from this community. It has taken land, it has taken property, it has taken livelihoods and it has taken our peace of mind,” he said. “But today I stand here to say, no more will the sea consume our land.”
He explained that the second phase of the Blekusu project had been stalled for nearly a decade despite multiple appeals from residents and stakeholders. According to him, the current sod-cutting is a fulfilment of a promise he made earlier this year to end the pain and fear experienced by residents.
READ: President Mahama cuts sod for Blekusu Phase II Coastal Protection Project
The Phase II project will be executed by Messrs Amandi Holdings Limited and is scheduled to span four years; from 2025 to 2029. It will involve the construction of 37 groynes at approximately 220-metre intervals, dune restoration, reinforced embankments, and land reclamation to protect an 8-kilometre stretch of the Ketu South coastline.
“Your cries have not been in vain. Your voices will no longer be ignored. Today is your day; a day of renewal and a day of reassurance,” he added.
Beyond erosion control, the initiative will incorporate socio-economic infrastructure, including a modern fish market, cold storage and processing facilities, fish drying and smoking areas, a lorry station, car park, and improved sanitation systems.
“This is more than just a coastal protection work. It is a comprehensive resilience initiative, blending environmental protection with socio-economic infrastructure,” Mahama said.
He urged all stakeholders; including the Ministry of Works and Housing, Ghana Hydrological Authority, Ketu South Municipal Assembly, and community members; to collaborate for the successful delivery of the project.
President Mahama also called on the youth to respect construction timelines, avoid harmful practices like illegal sand mining, and help preserve the new infrastructure.
Additionally, he announced that the upcoming Waka Project, designed to extend coastal protection to Aflao, is awaiting approval from the Ministry of Environment. He also revealed that a grant from the Chinese government will support the construction of a new market in Aflao.
Mahama said the initiative reflects his broader vision for an inclusive and resilient Ghana where no community is left behind due to environmental vulnerability.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
