Heavy waves have flooded Ghana’s coastal Volta Region since Saturday, displacing around 1,000 residents and destroying homes and schools.
Local authorities have declared a state of emergency as efforts begin to address the disaster.
Agavedzi, a community near the border with Togo, suffered the worst impact from the “tidal waves,” as they are locally known, with 51 houses damaged and more than 300 people forced to flee.
“We are aware of your situation and are determined to take proactive measures,” said Volta Regional Minister James Gunu, who announced the emergency declaration while visiting the area over the weekend.
Although coastal flooding is a recurring issue in Ghana, residents say authorities have been slow to provide a long-term fix. A sea defence project started several years ago remains incomplete, leaving many communities vulnerable to ocean surges.
Experts warn that climate change is worsening coastal erosion in Ghana, where a quarter of the population lives along the country’s 550-kilometre (350-mile) coastline.
Fishermen and local leaders have urged a comprehensive approach to mitigate the impact, including dredging to help control the ocean’s encroachment.
The latest surge has affected multiple communities, including Some, Salakope, and Amutinu, severely disrupting daily life, education, and healthcare services.
The advancing sea also threatens critical infrastructure. Kumawu cautioned that if the situation remains unaddressed, the rising waters could overrun the key Keta-Aflao road, cutting off vital transportation routes.
Noble Wadjah, coordinator of the Coastal Civil Society Organisations Forum, warned that continued inaction could have devastating consequences.
Health workers from the Ghana Health Service are expected to provide medical screenings for affected residents, and a clinical psychologist will be available to assist those experiencing trauma from the disaster.
