Mahama visits Volta Region tidal wave victims; orders budgetary allocation of phase 2 sea defence project

President John Mahama has directed the Minister of Finance to make the necessary budgetary allocations for the commencement of the Blekusu Phase 2 project. 

This initiative is aimed at mitigating the perennial flooding and destruction caused by tidal waves along the coast of Ketu South and Keta constituencies in the Volta Region.

The directive follows recent tidal waves that have displaced approximately 600 people, leaving communities such as Agavedzi and its surrounding areas in distress. 

The President, during a visit to the affected areas, reassured residents of the government’s commitment to providing lasting solutions to the recurring problem.

Speaking to affected residents, President Mahama emphasised that funding for the Blekusu Sea Defence Project Phase 2 would be included in the upcoming national budget, which will soon be presented to Parliament.

“Funding for the sea defence project will be captured in the budget to be presented to Parliament in a few days,” he assured.

Beyond the sea defence project, the government has also announced an immediate allocation of a safe resettlement site for those displaced by the disaster. 

 

According to the President, the twin approach of building a sea defence wall and ensuring adequate resettlement would be crucial in addressing the long-term challenges posed by tidal waves.

“There are two things we have to do; that is building a sea defence wall and also accommodation for those affected,” President Mahama added.

The devastation caused by tidal waves in Ketu South and Keta has been a recurring issue. 

The Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, recently spent a night with victims in Ketu South to assess the extent of the damage and reassure them of the government’s support. His visit underscored the increasing concern over climate-related disasters along Ghana’s coastline and the need for long-term interventions.

The proposed Blekusu Phase 2 Sea Defence Project is a continuation of earlier efforts to protect Ghana’s coastline from severe erosion and tidal waves. The first phase, completed in 2014, covered the stretch from Keta to Hlorve. Phase 1 of the project had seen the construction of rock revetments to shield communities from the direct impact of tidal waves. However, the expanding nature of the problem necessitated a follow-up phase to cover additional affected areas. The second phase is expected to extend the protective measures further along the coast, encompassing the most vulnerable communities.

The President’s announcement has was met with cautious optimism, with residents expressing hope that the project will be expedited to prevent further loss of homes and livelihoods.

With the Minister of Finance set to present a new budget to Parliament on March 11, 2025, it is expected that the project is highlight in national budget. 

Following Parliamentary approval and allocation of resources for its execution, stakeholders, including the Ministry of Works and Housing and the Volta Regional Coordinating Council, are expected to collaborate to ensure a swift commencement of the project.

The government has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding coastal communities from natural disasters and providing sustainable housing solutions for those affected.

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