President John Dramani Mahama has served notice that persons who have encroached on the Ramsar sites would be punished.
He warned that his government will take action against individuals and entities that have illegally constructed buildings in unauthorised areas, including wetlands, waterways, and Ramsar sites.
Speaking at the 2025 National Eid-ul-Fitr celebration at Black Star Square, President Mahama today. On Monday, March 31, 2025, the president indicated that it was important to deal with land encroachment since it has contributed to persistent flooding and environmental degradation across Ghana.
President Mahama stressed that all unauthorised structures obstructing waterways would be demolished without exception.
“I must address a deeply troubling issue. The illegal construction of buildings in waterways causing flooding and extensive destruction of property. As we know, the rains are about to start, and already, we are seeing flooding because people have built and blocked the rivers, and so they have nowhere to go but to back up.
“This reckless disregard for planning regulations and environmental safety is a major contributor to the devastating floods that continue to plague our communities. I am aware of instances where private individuals collude with some chiefs to convert Ramsar sites into built-up zones. Let me be clear, this must stop.
“Those structures will be pulled down, and we will not allow a few selfish individuals to endanger the lives and livelihoods of countless others. The law will be enforced, and those who flout it will face the consequences.”
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
