Harbour View Residents Protest Destruction of 240 Plots in Sakumo Ramsar Demolition
The Harbour View Estate Residents Association has expressed deep concern over the ongoing demolition exercise at the Sakumo Ramsar Site, which has reportedly destroyed more than 10.5 acres of land—equivalent to 240 residential plots. The development has heightened anxiety among affected homeowners and reignited debate about how government can strike a balance between ecological preservation and urban development.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Show on Friday, August 22, the Association’s Chairman, Jonathan Boye-Doku, described the demolitions as devastating and called for broader consultations with residents and stakeholders.
“The demolition of land at the Ramsar site impacted about 10.5 acres of properties, that is 240 plots. That is quite a lot. With Sakumono, we have two things at play: Sakumono as a Ramsar site and Sakumono as a government-acquired site. Which one are we fighting for? If it is Ramsar, then we must sit down and see the best way to solve the problem,” Mr. Boye-Doku said.
He argued that while residents are not opposed to protecting the environment, the Ramsar site was originally designated for sustainable development, and any solution must align with this vision. He urged the government to pursue a “win-win approach” that allows urbanisation while safeguarding ecological balance.
The demolition exercise, spearheaded by the Greater Accra Regional Security Council (REGSEC), began on Monday, August 4, 2025, targeting unauthorised structures within the protected site across Communities 5, 6, 10, 11, and 12. Authorities maintain that the demolitions are necessary to check encroachment and protect the wetland, which serves as an ecological buffer and wildlife habitat.
However, residents insist that any sustainable solution must involve technical consultations to ensure the original purpose of the Ramsar site is preserved. They have since petitioned President John Dramani Mahama to intervene in the matter and initiate dialogue with affected communities.
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