AGAVEDZI: Heavy waves have since Saturday flooded Ghana’s coastal Volta Region, displacing some 1,000 people and destroying homes and schools, prompting local authorities to declare a state of emergency.

The community of Agavedzi, near the border with Togo, was the heaviest hit by the “tidal waves”, as the ocean swells are locally referred to, with 51 houses and more than 300 people uprooted.

“We are aware of your situation and are determined to take proactive measures,” Volta Regional Minister James Gunu said, who declared the state of emergency as he visited the area over the weekend.

Though coastal flooding from ocean surges is a recurring problem in this stretch of Ghana, residents say authorities have been slow to come up with a lasting solution.

A sea wall started several years ago remains only partially built. Fishermen have urged a comprehensive approach, including dredging to help control the ocean’s encroachment.

Published in Dawn, March 5th, 2025