Accra: Residents of the Zenga community in Paga have called for the urgent desilting and protection of the famous Paga crocodile pond to sustain its tourism value and preserve its heritage, which is deeply rooted in their identity.
According to Ghana News Agency, the call was made during a durbar held in honour of 'Yuu-Nyenga,' a legendary and friendly crocodile discovered in 1963, which died in December 2025 after decades of attracting visitors from across the world.
The event, organised by the Zenga Youth Association with logistical and financial support from Kacstone Records, brought together traditional leaders, government officials, youth groups, tourism authorities, and community members to celebrate the life of the reptile, widely regarded as a symbol of peace, unity, and a source of livelihood in the area.
Mr Emmanuel Kuseh, Zenga Youth Chairman, said the history of Paga could not be told without reference to the crocodiles, describing them as central to both the cultural identity and tourism appeal of the community. He recalled how the reptiles featured prominently in basic school textbooks and attracted global attention.
He expressed concern about the deteriorating state of the pond, noting that it had not been dredged for over 40 years, even though it currently hosts more than 200 crocodiles. Mr Kuseh highlighted the urgency of desilting the pond to create enough space and ensure the survival of the crocodiles.
Mr Kuseh also raised alarm over encroachment and the lack of fencing around the facility, which he said exposed the reptiles to harm. He cited unconfirmed reports that the late Yuu-Nyenga may have been attacked before its death, stressing the need for vigilance among residents and tour guides.
Mr Joseph Appiagyei, Upper East Regional Director of the Ghana Tourism Authority, expressed sympathy to the people of Paga over the loss, describing the reptile as one of the most iconic tourism assets in the region. He underscored the importance of preserving the pond, noting that its water levels were steadily declining.
Mr Appiagyei commended the people of Paga for their unique relationship with the crocodiles, where humans and reptiles coexist peacefully. He emphasized that such a relationship is rare and worth preserving for future generations.
Mr Raymond Adda, speaking on behalf of Mr Wenowome Duriyem Aborah, Managing Director of Kacstone Records, highlighted the significant contributions of the crocodiles to job creation, tourism development, and cultural preservation. He stressed the importance of reinvesting revenue generated from the facility into its enhancement.
Mr Desmond Abire Ayambire, Public Relations Officer of the Paga Youth Movement, commended the Zenga Youth Association for organising the event and called for improved management of revenue generated from the facility. He emphasized the need for a portion of the revenue to be set aside for maintenance and development.
Mr Stephen Aeke Akurugo, the Kassena Nankana West District Chief Executive (DCE), commended the youth for the initiative and expressed the government's commitment to local development.