The Western Regional Minister, Honourable Joseph Nelson has directed an immediate evacuation of all individuals operating along landslide prone sections of the Albert Bosomtwi Sam Fishing Harbour in Sekondi following a fire outbreak linked to recent rainfall activity. The directive followed an emergency assessment after a landslide damaged infrastructure and triggered safety risks within the harbour enclave.
The Western Regional Minister explained that continuous rainfall over several days contributed to soil instability which led to the collapse of a section of the harbour area. He indicated that the movement of earth brought down structures close to electrical installations, creating conditions that resulted in fire when contact occurred.
Honourable Nelson noted that emergency responders acted swiftly to contain the situation and limit destruction within the facility. He commended the Ghana National Fire Service for their rapid intervention which prevented a wider escalation of the incident.
“It is a natural occurrence as it is a landslide caused by the rains we have experienced over the last few days. The continuous rainfall has weakened the ground and caused that portion of the fishing harbour to collapse. The electrical wires were very close to the wall and when the collapse happened it made contact and triggered the fire.”
Honourable Joseph Nelson
Furthermore, he emphasised that the situation requires urgent attention beyond immediate response measures. The Western Regional Minister stressed that the ongoing rainfall pattern continues to pose risks of further landslides within the area.
Honourable Nelson subsequently directed that all persons operating within the affected stretch relocate without delay. He explained that the unpredictability of such incidents leaves no room for continued occupation of high risk zones.
He further highlighted that precautionary evacuation remains the most effective means of safeguarding lives. He warned that ignoring safety directives could expose residents and workers to preventable hazards if further ground movement occurs.
Subsequently, he urged stakeholders at the harbour to treat the situation as a critical warning. He added that the visible instability of the terrain indicates potential for recurrence if preventive action is not taken promptly.
Risk Surveillance and Safety Culture Urged After Harbour Incident
The Western Regional Minister, Honourable Joseph Nelson highlighted the importance of early detection systems in reducing the impact of environmental hazards.
Honourable Nelson explained that the recent incident demonstrates the need for continuous observation of high risk areas, especially during periods of heavy rainfall. He noted that similar environmental conditions could arise in other locations, requiring proactive safety awareness.
He stressed that institutional preparedness must be complemented by individual responsibility to reduce exposure to avoidable dangers. The Western Regional Minister indicated that both public agencies and residents have roles in identifying and eliminating potential risks.
“At any point in time we should be detecting risk of fire anywhere and everywhere so that when we come across one we take it out of the way. We must all be alert to anything that could lead to danger within our surroundings. This includes our homes, workplaces and public spaces where hidden risks may exist. Acting early prevents disasters before they happen.”
Honourable Joseph Nelson
The Western Regional Minsiter noted that the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority has demonstrated commitment in managing safety conditions at the harbour. He encouraged continued collaboration between technical teams and regulatory bodies to strengthen monitoring systems.
Honourable Nelson added that environmental changes during rainy seasons require heightened awareness from all communities. He explained that small warning signs often precede major incidents and should not be overlooked.
He also urged the public to respond promptly to safety alerts issued by authorities. He indicated that compliance with evacuation and precautionary instructions rare essential in preventing loss of life.
He stressed that risk management should extend beyond the harbour environment into daily living conditions. He pointed out that households and workplaces must also prioritise identification of structural or environmental dangers.
The Western Regional Minister further called for sustained education on disaster preparedness to build a stronger safety culture. He emphasised that consistent awareness creation will help reduce vulnerability across communities exposed to natural hazards.
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