Greater Accra Regional Minister Linda Akweley Ocloo has confirmed that the Regional Coordinating Council has finalised plans to demolish illegal buildings within the Sakumo Ramsar Site. The minister announced that the exercise will target structures situated in the core zone of the protected wetland to restore its ecological integrity.
The government has identified specific areas between Accra and Tema where developers have ignored previous warnings to halt construction activities. Official data indicates that the core area of the wetland has decreased from 13 square kilometres to approximately 8.2 square kilometres due to rapid urbanisation.
“A few weeks ago, RCC, Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council received intelligence on renewed encroachment within the core zone of the Sakumono Ramsar site, despite earlier directives to developers to desist from all forms of activities within the enclave.”
Honourable Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, MP for Shai-Osudoku
Minister Ocloo explained that the site provides essential ecosystem services, including flood control and water purification, for surrounding communities. She emphasised that the encroachment threatens the diverse wildlife and migratory birds that have relied on the coastal wetland since its designation in 1992.
The Regional Coordinating Council will partner with the Forestry Commission and the Tema West Municipal Assembly to execute the clearing exercise starting next week. Authorities note that unauthorised construction and waste dumping remain the primary factors contributing to the degradation of the internationally recognised wetland.
The Minister stated that intelligence reports have uncovered renewed physical development despite earlier directives aimed at protecting the site. She warned all prospective land users to refrain from any form of activity within the enclave to preserve its natural function.
The Regional Minister noted that chieftaincy and land disputes continue to persist as emerging threats to regional stability. She urged stakeholders to maintain peace while the government addresses the technical aspects of land management and site protection.
The upcoming demolition exercise will represent a firm commitment to upholding the Ramsar Convention standards within the Greater Accra Region. Security agencies have been directed to provide the necessary support to ensure the safety of the task force during the operations.
Staff from the Tema West Municipal Assembly are preparing the logistics required for the removal of both permanent and temporary structures identified by surveyors. The minister reiterated that the preservation of the wetland serves the public interest over private commercial gains.
Ocloo Announces Monthly Farmers Market To Enhance Agricultural Value Chain
The Greater Accra Regional Minister also announced the establishment of a monthly farmers market intended to improve the local food distribution network. The initiative will connect producers directly to the urban population to promote food security and price stability within the region.
The first session of the market programme is scheduled to commence on April 24, 2026, at designated locations. The project will allow consumers to purchase fresh vegetables, fruits, livestock, and grains at prices significantly lower than standard retail rates.
Hon. Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo explained that the Department of Agriculture has structured the event to eliminate the influence of middlemen in the supply chain. The government expects this strategy to increase profit margins for rural farmers while providing relief to households facing high food costs.
The regional administration is prioritising the reduction of post-harvest losses by creating a reliable and timely sales platform for perishable goods. The Honourable believes that the direct sales model provides an effective alternative to traditional marketing systems that often disadvantage primary producers.
The Shai-Osudoku MP invited the public to patronise the initiative to support the local economy and strengthen the agricultural sector. She expressed her intention to purchase goods for her family during the inaugural event to demonstrate her support.
“This initiative is designed to bridge the gap between farmers and consumers by eliminating middlemen in the value chain,” the Regional Minister said. She encouraged local assemblies to replicate the model within their jurisdictions to expand its impact.
The Regional Coordinating Council considers the market a vital component of a strategy to enhance regional productivity and economic resilience. Plans include the provision of farm inputs and cereals alongside fresh produce to support urban gardeners and small-scale poultry farmers.
By removing intermediaries, the Government aims to ensure that farmers receive the true value of their labour without unnecessary price increases. The Minister praised the Regional Department of Agriculture for its proactive approach in designing a sustainable solution for the food value chain.
She called on media houses to disseminate information on the locations of the monthly market stalls. Honourable Ocloo reaffirmed that the success of the agricultural sector will depend on innovative marketing and consistent support from the public.
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