CIMAG Applauds Mahama, Government on Launch of Agavedzi Sea Defence Wall Construction

By Samuel Asamoah

The Centre for International Maritime Affairs, Ghana (CIMAG) has lauded the Government of Ghana and former President John Dramani Mahama for officially initiating the long-awaited construction of a sea defence wall at Agavedzi and its surrounding coastal communities.

In a press release issued on Thursday, CIMAG described the move as a critical step toward addressing the persistent threat of coastal erosion and the devastation caused by tidal waves along Ghana’s eastern shoreline.

“This initiative marks a significant milestone in protecting vulnerable communities and safeguarding critical infrastructure,” said Albert Derrick Fiatui, Executive Director of CIMAG. “We are highly impressed by the government’s response to the urgent needs of the people of Agavedzi and neighboring areas.”

Coastal erosion and tidal wave destruction have long plagued several communities along Ghana’s coast, particularly in the Volta Region, displacing families and destroying homes, livelihoods, and farmlands. The sea defence wall is expected to serve as a buffer, shielding these communities from the encroaching Atlantic.

While acknowledging the importance of this development, CIMAG called for a more holistic and environmentally conscious approach to coastal defence interventions. The organization urged contractors and authorities to integrate biodiversity conservation into the project’s design and execution.

“Though the erection of rock sea defence walls offers an immediate response to tidal wave destruction, it must be recognized that this is not a permanent solution to the underlying challenges,” the statement cautioned. “We must work collectively to develop sustainable and nature-based strategies that go beyond hard engineering.”

CIMAG reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with the Presidency, relevant ministries, and key stakeholders by offering research-based insights and sustainable policy recommendations for long-term coastal management.

“As an organization dedicated to maritime affairs and environmental protection, we stand ready to support the government and all partners in safeguarding our coasts,” Mr. Fiatui noted. “The sea remains one of humanity’s greatest resources—it should be harnessed as a blessing, not battled as a curse.”

The construction of the Agavedzi Sea Defence Wall is expected to bring relief to thousands of residents in coastal communities who have, for years, appealed for government intervention in the face of worsening climate impacts. The project also reflects growing national attention on the intersection between coastal protection, community resilience, and environmental sustainability.