Our beaches, aside from being hubs for fishing activities, are cherished spots for recreation. However, the current state of filth makes it challenging for people to enjoy them fully.

To combat this issue, a group of students pursuing their MSc in Development Management at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, as part of the Social Entrepreneurship and Philanthropy program, spearheaded a clean-up initiative named ShoreCare.

The group has orchestrated a significant clean-up effort at Allan Beach and African Beach in the Sekondi-Takoradi metropolis.

Following the exercise, essential sanitation items were donated to a newly established association aimed at sustaining the project.

These items included brooms, shovels, rakes, trash bags, and well-designed dustbins with signage, strategically placed along the beaches. The project received support from pub owners within the beach areas, ZOIL, and the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly.

The group’s project aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Goal 14: Life Below Water: By removing litter and debris, the initiative contributes to preserving marine life and ecosystems, as well as promoting sustainable use of marine resources. Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities: Promoting cleanliness and preserving natural beauty fosters the development of resilient and sustainable communities along the coastline. Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production: Encouraging responsible waste management practices aids in reducing marine pollution and promoting sustainable consumption patterns.

The clean-up endeavor at Allan and African Beaches is aimed at achieving environmental restoration and conservation, enhancing the appeal of these coastal areas for both locals and tourists.

The initiative involved mobilizing volunteers, organising clean-up efforts, and implementing waste management practices to protect the environment and local ecosystems.

Assembly member of Harbour Railways electoral area, Gilbert Saiw Afrieyie, expressed his support for the initiative, emphasizing its significance in restoring the beaches.

He pledged to organise monthly clean-up exercises to maintain the progress achieved.

Priscilla Amoako, a member of the MSc Development Management program at KNUST, commended the success of the clean-up and urged residents to refrain from littering the beaches.

Newlove Baffoe and Rita Mutty, also members of the institution, highlighted the importance of enforcing by-laws and engaging businesses to ensure the sustainability of the project.

By keeping our beaches clean, we not only preserve their natural beauty but also contribute to the well-being of our communities and the sustainable development of our coastal areas.