Accra: Madam Linda Obenewaa Ocloo, the Greater Accra Regional Minister, has led a multi-sectoral task force to demolish unauthorized structures erected within the Sakomo Ramsar site’s catchment area. The team was comprised of members from the Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA), Tema West Municipal Assembly (TWMA), TDC Ghana Limited, Forestry Commission, and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO).

According to Ghana News Agency, the exercise involved the dismantling of structures at various stages of completion, under heavy security presence from the police and military to prevent potential attacks from developers and land guards, which have been a concern in previous demolition efforts. Madam Ocloo stated that the operation was a directive from President John Dramani Mahama, aimed at protecting key ecological zones and mitigating flood risks in the capital.

Madam Ocloo expressed concern over the disregard for warnings about building in the Ramsar area, emphasizing that those who defy these warnings will face legal consequences. She also questioned the role of planners and engineers in allowing the unauthorized developments, highlighting the need for accountability within the assemblies.

The minister assured that the operation was successful and would be expanded to other areas in the Greater Accra Region to clear waterways and prevent flooding, particularly during the rainy season. Mr. Thomas Acquah, the site manager, reported that 8.23 hectares, representing about 52 percent of the Sakumo Ramsar site, have been encroached upon. He stated that the demolished structures were within the Ramsar’s core zone and needed to be removed.

Mr. Acquah also noted that the Forestry Commission would manage the debris and prepare the land for reforestation efforts as part of the Green Ghana initiative. Major (Rtd) Dr. Joseph Bikanyi Kuyon, Director General of NADMO, underscored the consequences of encroachment, explaining that it obstructs water flow into the sea, leading to flooding in residential areas.

Meanwhile, one developer criticized the demolition, arguing that it was a superficial solution to a systemic issue. He questioned the impact of the demolition on broader sanitation problems and whether the government would address underlying issues such as building storm drains to prevent flooding in Accra.