Ghana allocates GH¢257m to complete Blekusu coastal protection project

President John Dramani Mahama announced the allocation of GH¢257 million in the 2027 budget to continue and complete the Blekusu Phase Two coastal protection project in the Volta Region. The announcement was made at the 2026 Hogbetsotso Festival durbar in Anloga, Volta Region, on Saturday, November 7. President Mahama addressed concerns raised by traditional leaders about the impact of coastal erosion on coastal communities.

The President officially launched Phase Two of the project in July 2025 and expressed satisfaction with the progress of work. The additional funding ensures the uninterrupted continuation of the project, which aims to mitigate the effects of coastal erosion. Coastal erosion continues to threaten homes, fishing livelihoods, schools, community facilities, and places of cultural importance in the region.

President Mahama also announced that GH¢685 million had been allocated to commence coastal protection works under the West African Coastal Areas Resilience Investment Project (WACA). The project involves constructing breakwaters, groins, and revetments, as well as beach replenishment and dune protection through vegetation. The restoration of wetlands is also a key component of the project.

The WACA project will support the rehabilitation of lagoons and watersheds, alongside livelihood programmes for young people, women, and persons with disabilities in beneficiary communities. President Mahama emphasized the importance of protecting coastal vegetation to safeguard communities and reduce the effects of coastal erosion.

The President called on traditional leaders and residents to help protect mangroves and wetlands, warning that their destruction weakens the coastline and increases the risk of erosion. He stressed that protecting coastal vegetation is crucial to mitigating the impact of coastal erosion on communities.

The Blekusu Phase Two coastal protection project is a significant initiative aimed at addressing the challenges posed by coastal erosion in the Volta Region. The project's completion is expected to provide relief to communities affected by coastal erosion and support sustainable development in the region.

The government's allocation of GH¢257 million demonstrates its commitment to addressing the impact of coastal erosion and supporting the well-being of communities in the Volta Region. The project is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of residents and contribute to the region's economic development.

Key points

• The Ghanaian government has allocated GH¢257 million to complete the Blekusu Phase Two coastal protection project.
• The project aims to mitigate the effects of coastal erosion, which threatens homes, livelihoods, and community facilities.
• An additional GH¢685 million has been allocated for the West African Coastal Areas Resilience Investment Project (WACA) to support coastal protection works.