Residents of the Amutinu/Salakope electoral area in the Ketu South Municipality are sounding the alarm as tidal waves threaten to submerge the Keta-Aflao main road. This critical road connects two major towns in southern Volta, and its loss would disrupt economic activities and displace countless families. The ongoing coastal erosion has already devastated livelihoods, leaving residents desperate for solutions.
The Growing Threat of Coastal Erosion
Southern Volta has long been vulnerable to coastal erosion, but the situation has reached a crisis point. Tidal waves are inching closer to the Keta-Aflao road, raising fears that it could soon be completely submerged. This would not only cut off a vital transportation route but also destroy homes, businesses, and livelihoods.
During a visit to the affected area with NADMO officials, Volta Regional Minister James Gunu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing the crisis. However, residents are growing impatient, demanding immediate action to prevent further devastation.
Voices from the Ground: A Cry for Help
Sylvester Kumawu, Assembly Member for Amutinu/Salakope
In an interview with Channel One News, Sylvester Kumawu highlighted the severe challenges faced by residents:
- Accommodation Crisis: Many families have been displaced and are struggling to find shelter.
- Economic Impact: Fishing and salt mining, the primary sources of livelihood, have been severely disrupted.
Kumawu urgently called for the completion of the sea defense project, initiated by former President John Dramani Mahama in 2015, to protect the area from further destruction.
“There is not even a single house to the main road, which eventually means that in the coming days, the main road that connects Keta and Aflao will be completely submerged. When that happens, it means that economic activities between these two towns will cease. Their major source of livelihood is fishing and salt winning. As we speak now, they cannot go for fishing. If the sea eventually crosses the main road, that means that the salt winning too ceases. As we speak, they do not have a place or shelter.”
The Stalled Ghana Gas Shelter Project
In addition to the sea defense project, residents are calling for the completion of the Ghana Gas shelter project, which has stalled since 2022. This initiative was designed to provide two-bedroom self-contained houses for flood victims.
Kumawu expressed frustration over the lack of progress:
“Ghana Gas had paid about GHS2,000,000 to be used to build two-bedroom self-contained houses for the flood victims, and then we started with 15 of those rooms. But, unfortunately, I’m not even aware of the contractor that has been awarded the contract. All I see is that the municipal engineer comes in with some people to work. I cannot even identify who the contractor is, let alone pursue him to come and complete the project for the flood victims. The project is not complete, and the contractor and his boys are not even on-site as we speak.”
Why This Matters
The situation in Amutinu/Salakope is a stark reminder of the urgent need to address climate change and its impact on vulnerable communities. Coastal erosion not only threatens infrastructure but also displaces families and disrupts livelihoods. Without immediate intervention, the consequences could be catastrophic.
Call to Action: Protect Southern Volta
The residents of Amutinu/Salakope cannot wait any longer. Here’s how you can help:
- Raise Awareness: Share this story to highlight the plight of affected communities.
- Advocate for Action: Urge policymakers to prioritize the completion of the sea defense and shelter projects.
- Support Relief Efforts: Donate to organizations working to assist displaced families.