Illegal Structures Demolished at Sakumono Ramsar Site to Restore Waterways

Authorities in Ghana have taken decisive action to reclaim the Sakumono Ramsar Site by demolishing numerous illegal structures that encroached upon this vital wetland. The Forestry Commission, in collaboration with local assemblies and security councils, conducted a three-day operation to clear out buildings at various stages of construction within the core zone of the Gulf Course section.

This exercise is crucial for restoring the natural flow of waterways, a critical step in mitigating the persistent risk of flooding, especially as the rainy season looms. The operation proceeded smoothly, with excavators dismantling the structures without resistance, underscoring the unified front presented by the authorities. The Ghanaian Times observed the clearing of debris, a testament to the thoroughness of the demolition process.

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Let us not be sympathetic with people who do wrong. What is wrong is wrong. Building within a wetland is wrong, whether you have a permit from whoever is wrong. And that is why we are bent on ensuring that we drive away everyone doing what is not legitimate on the wetland.

Joseph Binlinla, Operations Manager at the Forestry Commission, emphasized the commission's unwavering commitment to protecting the Ramsar site, despite the level of encroachment. He stated, "Let us not be sympathetic with people who do wrong. What is wrong is wrong. Building within a wetland is wrong, whether you have a permit from whoever is wrong." This firm stance signals a new era of strict enforcement, with plans for 24-hour surveillance to prevent future incursions. Regional Minister Ms. Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo reinforced this, assuring that regulations would be strictly enforced and that officials issuing unlawful permits would face sanctions.

The collaboration extends to traditional leaders, with Nii Bortey Kalo Dzadzelor II, the Chief of Borkwei We, confirming an agreement to establish a committee for demarcating the core zone. This multi-stakeholder approach, involving traditional authorities, government agencies, and local communities, is essential for the long-term preservation of the Sakumono Ramsar Site, a critical ecosystem for flood prevention and biodiversity.

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If you want a permit, the engineers and planners should come to the site and check it before they give you the permit. As I am speaking to you, a lot of engineers have been transferred because of this issue.