SSNIT sought National Security action over encroachment at Labadi, La Palm beachfronts

The Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) requested the involvement of the National Security Council Secretariat to address unauthorized occupants and activities encroaching on the beachfronts near Labadi Beach Hotel and La Palm Royal Beach Hotel. These beachfront areas have faced persistent unlawful occupation, encroachment, and unauthorized activities, endangering the hotels' operations, according to SSNIT.

The Trust, which owns these hotels as part of its investment portfolio, holds a fiduciary responsibility to safeguard these national hospitality and tourism assets and ensure their continued profitability for contributors and pensioners. The Trust has identified several risks associated with the encroachment, including safety threats, public health hazards, and environmental damage.

SSNIT expressed concern that construction activities and sand extraction were degrading the coastal ecosystem and potentially damaging the hotels' reputation, the Trust's standing, and Ghana's tourism industry. The encroachment could also make the restoration of affected lands more challenging and expensive. SSNIT requested assistance from the National Security Secretariat to protect these assets, which it considers crucial for Ghanaian workers.

The affected beaches will be cleaned and restored to a safe and inviting state, remaining open to the public.