President Mahama operates a caterpillar at the Blekusu project launch
President John Dramani Mahama has officially broken ground for the second phase of the Blekusu Coastal Protection Project, aimed at safeguarding five communities in the Volta Region from the threat of tidal waves.
The groundbreaking ceremony took place on July 19, 2025, at Agavedzi, where he addressed a durbar of chiefs and residents.
“This is not merely symbolic, but rather a clear demonstration of what responsible leadership can do, when it cares, when it listens, when it acts,” he stated.
The second phase of the project will provide protection for the coastal communities of Blekusu, Agavedzi, Salakope, Amutinu, and Adina. These towns have suffered severe damage from tidal waves in recent years, with homes, livelihoods, and farmlands lost to coastal erosion.
The project, to be executed by construction firm AMANDI, is expected to be completed within four years. It involves the construction of 37 groynes, large rock structures built perpendicular to the shore to trap sand and reduce erosion, as well as land reclamation works to secure eight kilometres of coastline.
The Ghana Hydrological Authority will supervise the project.
President Mahama emphasised that Ghana’s 550-kilometre coastline is vital for fishing, trade, and tourism, but remains highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change and tidal waves.
“This initiative shows a national resolve to protect coastal communities, and to safeguard lives, homes, and key infrastructure,” he said.
He also announced that the project would include infrastructure to support local livelihoods. This will feature the construction of a modern fish market, cold storage and processing facilities, platforms for drying and smoking fish, a car park and lorry station, public sanitation amenities, and a waste collection system.
“So, this is more than just coastal protection; it is a comprehensive resilience initiative, blending environmental protection with socio-economic infrastructure,” President Mahama added.
He called on all stakeholders, including the Ministry of Works and Housing, the Ghana Hydrological Authority, the Ketu South Municipal Assembly, contractors, consultants, and local communities, to work together with unity and purpose to ensure the project’s success.
“Let us uphold the values of accountability, transparency, and community engagement throughout the implementation of this project. I urge everyone, especially the youth, to take ownership of this initiative by respecting construction zones and timelines, and by refraining from harmful activities such as illegal sand winning,” he said.
Background of the project
The Blekusu Coastal Protection Project began in 2015 during President Mahama’s first term in office.
Phase I of the project secured a 4.3-kilometre stretch of coastline, protecting the communities of Azizadzi, Horvi, and Blekusu. It involved the construction of groynes to reduce the impact of tidal waves and curb coastal erosion.
Although Phase I was successful, nearby communities remained exposed to similar threats.
Additionally, rising sea levels and worsening climate conditions heightened the urgency for continued action, prompting the commencement of Phase II.
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