President John Dramani Mahama has vowed to take strong action against individuals and entities that have illegally constructed buildings on protected lands, including Ramsar sites, wetlands, and waterways.

Speaking at the 2025 National Eid-ul-Fitr celebration at Accra’s Black Star Square, Mr. Mahama addressed the alarming increase in land encroachment, which he said has fueled both persistent flooding and widespread environmental degradation across Ghana.

In a bold statement, the President made it clear that any unauthorized structures blocking vital waterways would be demolished, with no exceptions. He expressed deep concern about the unchecked violation of urban planning regulations, warning that such actions have exacerbated the country’s annual flooding crisis.

“The illegal construction of buildings in waterways is not just an eyesore — it’s a disaster waiting to happen,” Mr. Mahama said. “As the rainy season approaches, we’re already seeing the consequences, with floods backing up because rivers are blocked by these structures.”

President Mahama also called out the troubling practice of individuals collaborating with traditional leaders to illegally convert Ramsar sites into urban areas, a practice he described as “reckless” and “dangerous.”

“I know there are cases where private developers, in collusion with some chiefs, have turned protected lands like Ramsar sites into construction zones. This must end now,” President Mahama declared. “These structures will be torn down. We cannot let a few greedy individuals jeopardize the lives and livelihoods of many.”

The President’s warning comes at a critical time, as Ghana braces for the start of the rainy season. With severe flooding already a pressing issue, Mr. Mahama’s message signals a commitment to enforcing environmental laws and protecting vulnerable communities from the devastating impact of unchecked urbanization.

Source:TheDotNews