Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo, has urged traditional authorities implicated in the illegal sale of land within the Sakumo Ramsar site to compensate affected victims.
The Minister’s remarks follow a series of demolitions carried out at the Ramsar site—an internationally protected wetland—where unauthorized structures were recently brought down as part of government efforts to preserve the area’s ecological value. The demolitions, though intended to protect the environment, have left several residents displaced and properties destroyed.
Government’s Position on Ramsar Protection
Madam Ocloo, addressing the media, emphasized that while the demolitions were necessary to restore and preserve the Ramsar site, it is equally important that those who enabled the illegal sales are held accountable.
“The chiefs and family heads who knowingly sold portions of the Ramsar site must be responsible enough to offer replacement lands or compensate the victims,” she stated. “We cannot continue to allow indiscipline and disregard for national planning regulations.”
The Sakumo Ramsar site, located between Accra and Tema, is a vital ecological zone that supports biodiversity and protects coastal communities from flooding. Encroachments over the years have threatened its survival, prompting government action through the Lands Commission and Environmental Protection Agency.
Compensation for Victims and Legal Action
Linda Ocloo further noted that investigations have revealed that some traditional authorities sold the lands under the pretext that they were suitable for development, despite clear government restrictions. She urged affected individuals to provide evidence of purchase and cooperate with law enforcement agencies to ensure that those responsible are prosecuted.
“We must balance environmental protection with social justice,” the Minister said. “The government cannot allow people to suffer due to the negligence and greed of others.”
Stakeholder Response and Public Sentiment
Many environmental activists have applauded the demolitions as a step in the right direction but also expressed concern about the human cost. Others have called for stronger education and enforcement to prevent such sales in the future.
The Ghana Police Service, in collaboration with local planning authorities, is expected to continue investigations into land transactions within the Ramsar site. Meanwhile, affected residents have been encouraged to seek legal redress or report any persons involved in the fraudulent sale of land.