A Ghanaian delegation, comprising members of the Coastal Civil Society Organizations Forum (CCF), recently visited Togo and Benin to assess the progress and impact of coastal protection projects under the West Africa Coastal Areas (WACA) Resilience Project.

The trip aimed to glean valuable insights from the successful implementation strategies in these neighboring countries, especially Benin.

Successful Coastal Protection in Grand Popo, Benin

The delegation’s visit to Grand Popo in Benin highlighted a well-executed coastal protection initiative.

According to Klobessi Koffi Edem, the WACA focal point in Benin, significant strides have been made to safeguard the coastline.

He noted that residents affected by the project were fully compensated even before the commencement of construction, ensuring a transparent and accountable process.

“The implementation has been thorough, transparent, and community-focused. Our approach emphasizes accountability, and we ensure that no resident is left behind,” Edem stated.

He urged the Ghanaian delegation, led by WACA Project Coordinator Noble Wadjah, to adopt similar measures for effective coastal management in Ghana.

Warm Welcome and Future Partnerships

The Chief of Arrondissement de Grand Popo, Kouletio Benjamin, warmly received the Ghanaian delegation at the district assembly.

He emphasized the historical and cultural ties between Grand Popo and Keta, describing them as “one family.”

Benjamin revealed plans to foster a working partnership with Keta, particularly in coastal management, to share resources, expertise, and best practices.

Learning from Best Practices

Project Coordinator Noble Wadjah praised the collaborative spirit and successful outcomes witnessed in Benin.

“This visit has deepened our understanding of effective coastal protection strategies. The lessons learned here will be instrumental in ensuring the success of similar initiatives in Ghana,” he said.

The project in Grand Popo involves constructing groins that extend 70 meters into the sea and 10 meters beneath the land surface.

These structures are strategically positioned to prevent coastal erosion and protect properties from the encroaching sea.

The Ghanaian delegation was particularly impressed by the technical precision and community involvement in the project’s execution.

A Step Towards Resilient Coastal Management

The delegation’s trip forms part of WACA’s broader objective to strengthen regional cooperation and knowledge exchange among West African nations facing similar coastal challenges.

As Ghana prepares for the implementation of its WACA Phase One projects, insights from Benin’s experience are expected to play a crucial role in enhancing project outcomes.

The successful coastal protection in Grand Popo stands as a testament to the effectiveness of WACA’s initiatives, offering a model that Ghana can emulate to protect its vulnerable coastlines and communities.