Gov’t allocates GH¢250M in 2027 budget for completion of Blekusu Coastal Protection Project

President John Mahama has allocated an additional GH¢250 million in the 2027 budget to complete the Blekusu Phase Two Coastal Protection Project. The funding aims to address the severe coastal erosion affecting several communities in the Ketu South Municipality of the Volta Region. Addressing the 2026 Hogbetsotso Festival, Mahama pledged to fully fund the project's continuation and completion, following appeals from traditional leaders and residents.

This announcement comes as Ghana grapples with the impact of coastal erosion on homes, fishing livelihoods, schools, and other community infrastructure. The Blekusu Phase Two project intends to protect an eight-kilometer stretch of coastline, including Blekusu, Agavedzi, Salakope, Amutsinu, and Adina. The project, launched in July 2025, involves constructing 37 groynes, reinforced embankments, and dune restoration works, along with modern fish market, cold storage, and fish processing facilities.

President Mahama also announced GH¢685 million for coastal protection interventions under the West African Coastal Areas Resilience Investment Project (WACA), which will combine engineering and environmental interventions to protect vulnerable communities and restore lagoons and watersheds. Mahama urged residents to support mangrove and wetland protection, emphasizing their role in strengthening the shoreline and reducing vulnerability to erosion.