Keta coastline could be lost in two years without urgent action, warns Maritime Expert
Published:
3 months ago
Source:
MyJoyOnline
Executive Director of the Center for International Maritime Affairs Ghana (CIMAG), Albert Fiatui has issued a stark warning that the Keta coastline in the Volta Region could disappear within the next two years if urgent action is not taken. Speaking on Joy FM's Super Morning Show, Mr Fiatui highlighted the alarming rate of coastal erosion in Keta, which is receding at 2.2 meters per year-significantly faster than other parts of Africa, where typical recession rates are around 0.6 meters.
"This rate of erosion is unprecedented and deeply concerning," Fiatui stated, "5 years is too long. At the rate of recession if care is not taken the next two years we may be losing a whole lot of the resources we have in the area."
Mr Fiatui criticized the government's response to the crisis, describing it as insufficient and reactive. He pointed out that the construction of sea defence walls, while a temporary measure, is not a sustainable solution. "Building sea walls is essentially a battle against nature-a battle we are likely to lose. We need to think beyond short-term fixes and look towards long-term, sustainable solutions."
Mr Fiatui advocated for the adoption of nature-based solutions, such as the strategic planting of trees, particularly mangoes, which can help stabilize the coastline. "Planting and preserving trees might not sound like a bold solution, but it is one of the most effective ways to protect the coast.