Mahama visits tidal wave-hit Ketu South, vows action on Sea Defence Project

President John Dramani Mahama marked Ghana’s Independence Day by visiting Agavedzi and other coastal communities in the Ketu South District of the Volta Region, which have been devastated by recent tidal waves.

The President inspected the damage, distributed relief items, and pledged to prioritise the completion of the Blekusu Sea Defence Project to protect the vulnerable coastline.

During his visit, President Mahama expressed disappointment at an abandoned resettlement project initiated by the Ghana Gas Company Ltd., describing the work as "shoddy" and inadequate for the needs of the affected communities.

More than 300 people have been affected by the disaster, with 50 homes destroyed and an 80-kilometre stretch of coastline ravaged by relentless tidal waves.

To provide immediate relief, the President donated essential supplies, including 750 bags of rice, cooking oil, detergents, mosquito nets, and other items.

He also announced a cash donation of 100,000 cedis from his brother, Ibrahim Mahama, and an additional 100,000 cedis from the Volta Region National Democratic Congress (NDC) caucus. These funds are intended to support the affected families as they rebuild their lives.

President Mahama was briefed on the feasibility studies and design for Phase Two of the Blekusu Sea Defence Project, a critical initiative aimed at protecting coastal communities from future tidal waves.

The first phase of the project, initiated under the previous government, was left incomplete, leaving residents vulnerable to further destruction.

Local chiefs took the opportunity to express their frustration over years of neglect and the failure to complete Phase One of the project. They lamented the recurring devastation caused by tidal waves and called for urgent action to safeguard their communities.

In response, President Mahama assured the community that he would direct the Finance Minister to allocate funds for the project in the 2025 budget.

"The completion of the Blekusu Sea Defence Project is not just a promise; it is a necessity. We cannot allow our people to suffer year after year while solutions remain on paper," he said.

The President was accompanied by a high-profile delegation, including his brother Ibrahim Mahama, North Tongu MP Okudzeto Ablakwa, Minister of Government Communications Felix Kwakye Ofosu, former Chief of Staff Prosper Bani, and Mutarla Mohammed, among others.