Ghana’s coastal communities are grappling with a deepening humanitarian crisis as rising tidal waves displace families, destroy homes, and threaten livelihoods.

In response, the Coastal Civil Society Forum (CCF) Coordinator, Noble Wadzah, visited the affected areas to express solidarity and to clarify the role of the West Africa Coastal Areas (WACA) Resilient Investment Project II (ResIP II) in addressing coastal erosion and building resilience.

CCF’s solidarity with affected communities

During the visit, CCF members listened attentively to the concerns of displaced residents, many of whom have lost everything to the relentless tidal waves.

The Forum assured the communities that while WACA is actively working to tackle coastal challenges, its interventions are designed for the long term, focusing on sustainable resilience rather than short-term emergency relief.

“Our presence here today is to stand in solidarity with the affected communities. We recognise their pain and the urgent need for interventions. However, it is important to understand that WACA is committed to structured approaches for coastal resilience, including nature-based solutions such as sand dunes and mangrove restoration to combat erosion, flooding, and pollution,” said Noble Wadzah, CCF Coordinator.

Understanding WACA’s Role

While some residents hoped for immediate action, the CCF Coordinator clarified that the responsibility for urgent humanitarian relief lies with the government of Ghana.

The Forum urged the government to act swiftly to address the immediate needs of displaced families while WACA’s long-term efforts continue. Wadzah emphasised that WACA’s role is not a reactionary one but part of a broader, long-term strategy.

Lessons from Benin and Togo

The Forum highlighted the success of coastal resilience projects in Benin and Togo, where WACA has implemented long-term, study-based solutions. Ghana, they stressed, must adopt a similar systematic approach rather than relying on short-term fixes that may not address the broader objectives.

A call for a balanced response

At this critical juncture, the CCF is advocating for a balanced approach that combines immediate government action to provide relief and support for affected communities, alongside long-term resilience efforts through WACA’s structured interventions.