Govt pledges Axim sea defence completion
Government's Commitment to Axim Sea Defence Project
The government of Ghana has reaffirmed its commitment to the completion of the Axim Sea Defence Project, aimed at protecting residents, especially fisherfolk, from the threats of tidal waves and flooding. This initiative is being carried out by Makam Plant Hire (MPH) and involves the construction of a 2.2-kilometre sea defence wall along with 550 metres of revetment. The project is designed to enhance resilience against coastal erosion, improve shoreline safety, reduce flooding risks, and safeguard the local economy.
The project, which began in 2025, is expected to be completed within two years. According to the Minister of Works, Housing and Water Resources, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, the work is progressing steadily. He urged the community to respect safety protocols at the site and allow uninterrupted construction. Adjei also mentioned that both MPH and the Hydrological Services Department have engaged the community to address concerns, noting that cooperation has improved and the pace of work is expected to increase.
Key Objectives of the Project
The Axim Sea Defence Project has several key objectives:
- Strengthening Coastal Resilience: By constructing a robust sea defence wall, the project aims to protect the coastline from the damaging effects of erosion and high tides.
- Improving Safety: The new infrastructure will significantly reduce the risk of flooding and provide safer conditions for residents and fishermen.
- Economic Protection: Safeguarding the local economy, particularly the fishing industry, is a crucial aspect of the project. The expansion of the bay will offer fisherfolk more space to dock their boats and canoes, ensuring better security for their fishing gear.
During his inspection of Phase Two of the project and additional works currently underway in the Western Region, Mr. Adjei emphasized the importance of patience and full cooperation from the Axim community. He assured that the government would provide all necessary support to ensure timely completion of the project.
Environmental and Community Concerns
Mr. Adjei also raised concerns about the impact of waste disposal on the environment. He warned residents against dumping refuse into drains, highlighting that waste washed into the sea eventually returns to the shore, posing health and environmental risks. He called on the community to exercise patience and cooperate fully to ensure the successful execution of the project.
The MPH Project Engineer, Mr. Benjamin Amissah, stated that the project was approximately 25 per cent complete. He attributed delays to variations in the scope of work but assured that the company would deliver quality infrastructure capable of supporting fishing activities and potentially boosting tourism. He emphasized that safety remained a top priority in the execution of the project.
Future Prospects and Benefits
The completion of the Axim Sea Defence Project is expected to bring numerous benefits to the region. The wider bay will enhance safety, reduce incidents of canoe capsizing, and allow fishermen to dock more safely even during low tides. These improvements are anticipated to contribute positively to the local economy and the overall well-being of the community.
As the project progresses, continued collaboration between the government, contractors, and the local community will be essential to ensure its success. With a focus on safety, environmental protection, and economic development, the Axim Sea Defence Project represents a significant step towards securing the future of the region.
