Sakumono Lagoon faces environmental threat from indiscriminate refuse dumping

What began as a small dumping area has escalated into a large illegal landfill, with commercial waste collectors, tricycle operators, and some private waste management companies allegedly depositing truckloads of waste daily. This relentless dumping has buried significant portions of the lagoon's channel, reclaiming acres of the wetland and raising fears of irreversible environmental damage. Residents have expressed concerns, with one, Thomas Narh, alleging that some traditional leaders deliberately designate parts of the lagoon for dumping, later reclaiming and selling the filled land.

Mr. Ludwig Teye Totimeh, the Municipal Chief Executive of the Tema West Municipal Assembly, acknowledged the problem, stating that despite warnings, people continue to dump refuse. He outlined a restoration plan that includes clearing unauthorized structures, desilting the lagoon, removing dumpsites, and rezoning areas to create a buffer. Mr. Totimeh emphasized the ecological importance of the Ramsar Site and called for public support to implement the plan, noting that a comprehensive proposal has been submitted to the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council.