President John Dramani Mahama has vowed to deliver a permanent solution to the devastation caused by tidal waves along Ghana’s coastline, declaring that communities will no longer be forced to live in fear.
Speaking at the sod-cutting ceremony for Phase II of the Blekusu Coastal Protection Project on Saturday, July 19, President Mahama recounted the extensive damage caused by tidal wave flooding over the years and affirmed that his government is taking bold steps to protect affected areas.
“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 noted that the Blekusu Coastal Protection Project, which began under his previous administration in 2015, had stalled for nearly a decade. Despite numerous appeals from residents, MPs, and civil society, the second phase of the project was never commenced, until now.
President Mahama described the launch of Phase II as a “day of renewal and reassurance” for affected communities, stressing the importance of listening and responding to the cries of the people.
The second phase of the project will deliver eight kilometres of coastal defence infrastructure, including 37 groynes, dune restoration, reinforced embankments, and shoreline protection. Additional socio-economic infrastructure such as a modern fish market, cold storage, fish smoking facilities, car park, and sanitation systems will also be constructed.
READ: Waka project to extend sea defence works from Blekusu to Aflao – Mahama
“This is more than just coastal protection. It is a comprehensive resilience initiative,” the President added.
He further announced the pending approval of the Waka Project, which will extend coastal defence efforts from Blekusu to Aflao. The new initiative will include beach replenishment and land reclamation to further protect vulnerable communities along the Volta coastline.
President Mahama called for unity and transparency among stakeholders to ensure the success of the project and urged local youth to take ownership by respecting construction zones and supporting environmental stewardship.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
