GA/R: TDC, National Security and Military reclaim encroached Sakumono Ramsar Site in major demolition exercise

The Tema Development Corporation Limited (TDC) has launched a demolition operation. This effort aims to protect Ghana's environmental assets at the Sakumono Ramsar site. The operation is in collaboration with National Security and the Ghana Armed Forces.

The goal is to reclaim state lands and preserve the area's ecology. TDC targeted illegal structures that encroached on the protected wetland. Mr. Courage Nunekpeku, TDC’s Managing Director, led the operation.

He highlighted the urgency of this exercise as the rainy season approaches. Preserving the Ramsar site is vital for flood mitigation and environmental protection. “This is about safeguarding lives, the environment, and state lands,” he stated.

Mr. Nunekpeku expressed concern over rapid encroachment by developers. Many structures were reportedly built overnight to avoid detection.

During the operation, traditional leaders arrived to appeal for a halt to demolitions. They claimed they had allocated parts of land to private developers. They promised to engage TDC through official channels for peaceful resolutions.

Despite their appeals, demolitions continued without pause. TDC insisted that protecting the Ramsar site's integrity was non-negotiable.

The operation then moved to Community 10 in Tema. There, a developer known as “Big Sam” was found filling wetlands with gravel and building apartments. Mr. Nunekpeku was furious; he noted that Big Sam had been warned multiple times.

“This blatant disregard for the law is unacceptable,” he said firmly. He added that they are sending a strong message against such actions.

As part of enforcement, an illegally erected fence blocking access was torn down. This served as a warning to others involved in similar activities.

TDC plans to continue working with security agencies and environmental stakeholders. Their aim is to protect the Ramsar site from further encroachment and ensure compliance with land use regulations.