The Greater Accra Regional Minister Hon. Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo has reiterated government’s commitment to protecting Ramsar sites from encroachment and illegal development. Speaking at the Sakumo site on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, the Minister expressed deep concern over the growing threats to one of Ghana’s most significant wetlands.
speaking at a working visit in collaboration with the Chief Executive Officer of Tema Development Coorperation at the site, she emphasized the critical role of the Sakumo Ramsar Site in sustaining biodiversity, supporting livelihoods, and mitigating the effects of climate change. Adding that the wetland, which serves as a habitat for numerous species of birds, fish, and wildlife, also plays a vital role in flood control and maintaining water quality.
She noted that despite its ecological and socio-economic significance, the Ramsar Site continues to suffer from illegal encroachment. Stressing that that any development in the core zone of the wetland, which harbors the highest biodiversity, would have severe consequences for the environment and the livelihoods of communities that depend on it. Adding
“To be precise, encroachment on the core zone of the Sakumo Ramsar Site is illegal and unacceptable,” the Minister declared. “Allowing construction or any form of development within this zone would not only endanger the ecosystem but also disrupt the lives of many people who rely on this wetland for their sustenance.”
Hon. Ocloo acknowledged the efforts of his predecessors, who worked closely with the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the Forestry Commission, and Traditional Authorities to protect the wetland and assured the public that her administration would remain committed to building on these conservation efforts to ensure the long-term preservation of the Ramsar Site.
She further announced that the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council will intensify efforts to enforce environmental regulations and protect the site from further degradation. “We will ensure that the relevant environmental regulations and existing laws are strictly enforced and complied with,” she affirmed.
The Greater Accra regional Minister made a clarion call to all Ghanaians, urging them to respect laws governing the nation’s wetlands and actively contribute to its protection and preserve these natural resources for future generations.
She further stressed on the need for collective responsibility in safeguarding not only the Sakumo Ramsar Site but also other wetlands, including the Densu Delta Ramsar Site.
“Let us protect what nature has graciously given us and let us be proud custodians of our environment,” she concluded.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Tema Development Corporation, Mr. Courage Nunekpenu who accompanied the Regional Minister stated that his outfit in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, would continue to educate the public about the negative effects of their activities on the Ramsar. Adding that failure to do so, could led to serious flooding on the Tema Motorway should the rains start.