Dzita: ActionAid Ghana, in partnership with Habitat for Humanity International and supported by UN-Habitat, has initiated a mangrove restoration project in Dzita, located in the Anloga District of the Volta Region. This project aims to bolster the resilience of coastal communities that are currently vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
According to Ghana News Agency, the initiative is part of a larger program designed to enhance resilience in these communities, which have suffered from significant mangrove depletion over the years. This depletion has increased the risk of coastal erosion, flooding, and rising sea levels. Mr. Ali Malik Gbene, Quality and Knowledge Management Manager at ActionAid Ghana, explained that the project is being executed under Component Two of a UN-Habitat-funded program aimed at strengthening Ghana's coastal communities.
'The component of the initiative covered three key areas, including the installation of early warning systems to help communities anticipate floods and rainfall risks, alongside nature-based solutions centred on mangrove restoration,' he said. Mr. Gbene highlighted that the restoration target for Ghana is set at 110 hectares, with mapping already completed for about 300 hectares within the Anloga area, showcasing strong potential for project expansion.
Last year, a 10-hectare pilot planting exercise was conducted, and the project has since moved into its first full phase of mangrove planting. Mr. Gbene noted that restoring the mangrove cover would not only act as a carbon sink but also support fish breeding, directly benefiting the livelihoods of local fishing communities.
Additionally, the project includes a livelihood component, with plans to introduce farmers along the mangrove fringes to improved agricultural technologies. This initiative has received strong collaboration from several organizations, including the Forestry Commission, the Physical Planning Department of the Anloga District Assembly, and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO).
Mr. Gbene urged community members to take ownership of the project and support efforts to maintain the restored mangrove ecosystem. He suggested that residents who harvest mangroves for fish smoking be encouraged to raise seedlings and participate in replanting activities to ensure continuous vegetation regeneration.
Mr. Solomon Domayen Antumwini, Country Representative of Habitat for Humanity International, emphasized the project's significant contribution to environmental sustainability and economic opportunities for residents. He pointed out that mangroves are vital for health and resilience in coastal communities, as they reduce erosion and address flooding issues.
Mr. Antumwini noted the marshy nature of the Dzita coastline makes mangroves the most suitable vegetation for the area and encouraged residents to support the initiative. He mentioned that many residents rely on mangroves for firewood, especially for fish smoking, and that relevant agencies are exploring alternative fuelwood sources to reduce pressure on mangrove resources.
Madam Sandra Seyram Kpedor, District Chief Executive for Anloga, praised the partners for introducing the project to the district. She highlighted that it would create employment opportunities and attract additional development interventions. The Assembly is addressing the challenge of mangrove depletion, mainly used for firewood in fish smoking, through public education and awareness initiatives.
The DCE assured that the Assembly would strengthen sensitization programs to help residents appreciate the environmental importance of mangroves and collaborate with NGOs to identify alternative livelihood opportunities for those who rely on mangrove resources.
Residents of Dzita expressed satisfaction with the project and pledged to support efforts to protect and sustain the mangrove ecosystem.