The Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), Prof Nana Ama Browne Klutse, has expressed confidence in President Mahama’s commitment to providing a sustainable sea defence system to combat coastal erosion in Agavedzi, Salakope, Amutinu, and surrounding areas.
Hundreds of residents have been displaced after massive tidal waves, triggered by rising sea levels, destroyed several homes.
The disaster has not only devastated livelihoods and deepened poverty but has also affected burial sites. Hundreds of graves, some dating back to the early 1930s, have been washed away by the relentless tides.
With no shelter, many victims now sleep by the roadside and other open spaces.
At the height of the disaster, Prof Klutse led a team of environmentalists to assess the damage in the three affected communities.
She called on the government and international development partners to intervene urgently to protect lives and property.
The visit highlighted the crisis and drew national attention to the people’s plight.
On 6 March 2025, President Mahama led a high-powered delegation of engineers and environmentalists, including Prof Klutse, to the affected areas to assess the situation firsthand.
During the visit, he announced that funds would be allocated to extend the sea defence project from Blekusu to the three hardest-hit communities.
“I am going to ask the Finance Minister to include funding to start Phase II of the Blekusu Sea Defence Project,” he stated.
Beyond securing funds, the president emphasised the need for a dual approach to the crisis.
“There are two things we need to do: start the building of phase two of the defence wall, but at the same time, resettle those whose houses have been affected,” he added.
Prof Klutse, who was part of the delegation, expressed deep appreciation for the president’s swift intervention.
Speaking to JoyNews, Prof Klutse noted, “President Mahama’s visit signals his unwavering commitment to tackling the environmental crisis once and for all, and I have no doubt the issue will be addressed!”
“We promised the people of Agavedzi that we would coordinate efforts to find a sustainable solution. I am happy that after consultations, the President visited in person and witnessed the severity of the situation,” she said.
She further noted, “I am happy that as we assessed the situation, we reported it, and now we are seeing results.”
Local assembly members have also expressed gratitude to President Mahama, the Volta Regional Minister James Gunu, Prof Klutse, and all stakeholders who have championed their cause and provided support during this crisis.
They remain hopeful for a permanent solution to the ongoing threat of coastal erosion.
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