Kelee Disaster: Over 40 Houses Swallowed by Tidal Waves in Weija

Tidal Waves: Over 40 Houses Swallowed by the Sea in Kelee – Residents Call for Urgent Action

Coastal erosion is rapidly devastating Kelee, a community in the Weija Gbawe Municipality of the Greater Accra Region. Over 40 homes have been consumed by the encroaching sea, leaving residents displaced and fearing for their future. Without immediate intervention, they warn that the entire community could soon be erased from the map.

Tidal Waves Force Families to Relocate

Residents speaking to Channel One News described how the shoreline, once over 400 meters away, has steadily advanced, submerging homes, schools, and critical infrastructure. The destruction has forced some children to seek education in neighboring communities like Wiaboman, adding strain to families already struggling to adapt.

“We Have Nowhere to Go” – Residents Share Their Struggles

Joseph Addy, one of the few remaining residents, is on the verge of losing his home. He lives in constant fear as tidal waves slam into the walls of his house daily.

“At times, the water rises and enters my bedroom through the window. I am afraid because I have nowhere to go with my kids. My strength has reduced, and I don’t have money to rent another place. We are managing, but we plead with the government to help us,” he lamented.

Is the Weija Dam Contributing to the Crisis?

Many locals believe the problem escalated when authorities connected the estuary to the sea to reduce excess water from the Weija Dam. The change has altered the natural tidal patterns, accelerating erosion and putting Kelee at risk of complete destruction.

NADMO Calls for Permanent Sea Defense Solution

Ebenezer Boakye, Principal Disaster Control Officer for the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) in Weija, has stressed the need for a long-term intervention.

“The sea has already consumed several homes, and without a permanent solution, we risk losing the entire township of Kelee in the coming years. A sea defense project is urgently needed to protect lives and property,” he stated.

Call to Action – Government & NGOs Must Step In

With more families at risk of displacement, immediate action is required. The government, disaster management agencies, and environmental organizations must prioritize the construction of a sea defense system to safeguard Kelee’s residents.

How You Can Help:

• Support Relief Efforts – Donate to organizations working to assist affected families.
• Raise Awareness – Share this story to highlight the urgency of the crisis.
• Demand Action – Contact local authorities and advocate for a sea defense initiative.

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External References for Further Reading:

• Ghana National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO)
• Environmental Protection Agency of Ghana
• Coastal Erosion Studies by UNESCO