TDC cracks down on Sakumono Ramsar Site encroachment amid rising tensions

TDC Ghana Ltd is taking decisive action to reclaim the Sakumono Ramsar Site. This wetland acts as a natural buffer for stormwater before it reaches the sea.

Recently, a demolition exercise at the site nearly turned violent. Angry youth blocked the road at Klagon to stop TDC officials and journalists from leaving.

Heavily armed military personnel had to fire warning shots to clear the road. This allowed an excavator and support vehicles to pass through.

TDC claims that previous warnings have not worked. They see force as their only option against growing encroachment.

However, traditional authorities in Nungua and local youth groups are resisting this move. Many benefit from illegal developments in the area.

Courage Nunekpeku, TDC's Managing Director, supervised the demolition of unauthorized structures at Klagon. He stated that the Ramsar site has been completely encroached upon.

Nunekpeku emphasized his responsibility to protect this area. He noted that he was appointed by the president and must fulfill his duty.

During the exercise, TDC discovered a long wall connecting Klagon to Tema Community 10. This wall could block upstream water flow and cause flooding in nearby areas.

He warned that while some encroachers may be spared, core areas are off-limits. The next demolition will be larger if illegal activities continue.

TDC urges all involved with Klagon structures to stop work immediately. They want traditional leaders who sold land to meet with them first.

The agency insists no permits were issued by TDC or local assemblies for these developments.

Nunekpeku visited palaces in Nungua, Kpone, and Tema out of respect and expects cooperation in return.

He criticized a group called “Ramsar Site To Be Regularised Association.” He questioned how they could expect recognition after encroaching on protected land.

Nii Otsedzen Ashong II represented the Nungua Traditional Council during discussions with TDC. He assured them that he would communicate their concerns to higher authorities.

Ashong mentioned they started documentation under a previous government but couldn't finish it. He expressed readiness to comply with TDC directives for flood prevention.

Later, TDC moved to Tema Community 10 where a private developer filled part of the Ramsar area despite warnings.

Nunekpeku highlighted that this waterlogged area is being narrowed and blocked by construction efforts, posing risks to the community.

The illegal fence wall was demolished, and relatives of the developer were ordered to stop work immediately and remove construction materials used for filling.