President Mahama urges collective responsibility as the Blekusu sea defence phase II kicks off
Agavedzi, (V/R), July 20,
President John Dramani Mahama has called on all stakeholders, particularly government institutions, traditional authorities, and the youth, to take full responsibility for the successful implementation of the Blekusu Phase II Sea Defence Project, describing it as a critical national investment that goes beyond shoreline protection.
Speaking at the official groundbreaking ceremony held on Saturday at Agavedzi in the Ketu South Municipality, President Mahama highlighted the importance of collaboration, accountability, and community engagement in ensuring the long-term success and sustainability of the project.
“To ensure the success of this vital project, we must all play our parts, I call on the Ministry of Works and Housing, the Ghana Hydrological Authority, the Ketu South Municipal Assembly, contractors and consultants, our revered Chiefs, and the people of this coastal stretch to work together in unity and purpose.” Mr Mahama said
He further urged all parties to uphold principles of transparency and responsible stewardship throughout the duration of the project, stressing that the true benefits of the sea defence initiative would only be realised through collective action and vigilant oversight.
In a passionate appeal to the youth, the former president highlighted their central role in safeguarding both the construction process and the infrastructure that will emerge from it. He advised young people in the affected communities to take ownership by observing construction safety protocols, avoiding illegal activities like sand winning, and promoting environmental awareness among their peers.
“I encourage the youth to take ownership of the project by respecting the construction zones and timelines, promoting coastal stewardship, and ensuring the completed infrastructure is well-maintained. This is not just a coastal protection effort, but a comprehensive resilience initiative blending environmental safeguarding with socio-economic transformation.”
According to Mr. Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, the Minister for Works and Housing, the Blekusu Phase II project is designed to be completed within 48 months. Spanning 8 kilometres along the Volta Region’s coastline, the project will safeguard vulnerable communities including Blekusu, Agavedzi, Salakope, Amutinu, and Adina.
The design includes 37 rocky groynes, dune restructuring, reinforced embankments, beach nourishments, and various shoreline protection systems.
Upon completion, the project will also feature essential public infrastructure such as: A modern fish market, cold storage and fish processing centre, Lorry station, Sanitation and waste management facilities
Residents who witnessed the ceremony expressed gratitude and optimism to the GNA, stating that the project brings long-awaited relief to communities that have suffered years of devastating tidal waves and erosion.
“We finally feel heard. This gives us hope that our homes, our livelihoods, and our children’s future will be protected.” One fisherman said
President Mahama concluded with a renewed call for commitment, emphasising that development is a shared responsibility, and only by standing together can the coastal communities thrive sustainably.
