Proposal for The Preservation And Restoration Of Ghana’s Six Ramsar Sites

Introduction
Ghana's Ramsar sites are ecological treasures that safeguard biodiversity, mitigate climate change, and support the livelihoods of countless communities. However, increasing encroachments, urbanization, and environmental degradation pose significant threats to their sustainability. This proposal outlines an integrated approach to preserve and restore Ghana's Ramsar sites, emphasizing community engagement, strategic partnerships, and sustainable management practices. The proposal also aligns specific strategies with each Ramsar site to ensure tailored and impactful interventions.

Objective
To restore and preserve all six Ramsar sites in Ghana to their original ecological boundaries, enhance biodiversity, mitigate climate change, and engage local communities in sustainable practices. The proposal also seeks to align these efforts with international best practices under the guidance of President John Dramani Mahama’s administration.

Key Action Plans
1. Boundary Restoration and Protection

- Reclaim encroached areas through the demolition of illegal structures.

- Conduct geospatial mapping to define and restore original boundaries.

- Employ security services to enforce no-entry zones, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment.

2. Dredging and Habitat Restoration

- Dredge wetlands like the Sakumo Lagoon to restore their hydrological functions.

- Plant native vegetation to combat soil erosion and enhance biodiversity.

- Establish nurseries for wetland-friendly plants and involve local communities in planting projects.

3. Community Engagement Programs

- Launch environmental education campaigns to increase awareness about the importance of wetlands.

- Provide alternative livelihoods, such as training in ecotourism, sustainable fishing, and craft-making.

- Form local governance committees involving traditional leaders and residents to oversee site management.

4. Policy and Institutional Strengthening

- Place Ramsar sites under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MESTI), with input from the Forestry Commission and local authorities.

- Develop and enforce strict wetland management policies based on successful international models.

- Integrate Ramsar site conservation into Ghana’s National Development Plan and climate adaptation strategies.

5. Research and Monitoring
- Collaborate with universities and research institutions to monitor the ecological health of Ramsar sites.

- Install real-time monitoring systems to track water quality, biodiversity, and encroachments.

- Publish annual reports to ensure transparency and accountability in wetland management.

6. International Partnerships
- Engage with global organizations, such as the Ramsar Secretariat, to secure funding and technical support.

- Learn from countries like India (Chilika Lagoon) and Australia (Ramsar Wetland Schools) to adopt proven conservation strategies.

- Explore opportunities for eco-certification to attract international ecotourism.

Alignment with Individual Ramsar Sites

1. Keta Lagoon Complex (Volta Region)

- Action: Rehabilitate degraded zones, promote sustainable salt production, and encourage birdwatching tourism.

- Community Role: Train locals in eco-tour guiding and sustainable fishing practices.

2. Songor Lagoon (Greater Accra Region)

- Action: Strengthen traditional management practices while regulating salt mining and fishing activities.

- Community Role: Create co-management structures with local leaders to balance resource use and conservation.

3. Sakumo Lagoon (Greater Accra Region)

- Action: Dredge clogged channels, enhance drainage, and restore biodiversity to combat urban encroachment.

- Community Role: Empower residents to act as “wetland stewards,” monitoring illegal activities and promoting awareness.

4. Densu Delta (Greater Accra Region)

- Action: Develop flood control measures and establish no-build zones along the delta’s margins.

- Community Role: Implement eco-friendly practices in farming and fishing to sustain the delta’s resources.

5. Muni-Pomadze Lagoon (Central Region)

- Action: Integrate ecotourism with educational programs to highlight the lagoon's unique ecosystems.

- Community Role: Engage residents in festival planning and eco-tourist interactions to strengthen cultural ties.

6. Owabi Wildlife Sanctuary (Ashanti Region)

- Action: Protect the reservoir from urban encroachment and expand research facilities.

- Community Role: Educate Kumasi residents about the importance of protecting their freshwater supply.

Budget and Funding
The proposed interventions will require approximately $50 million over five years. Funding sources will include:

Government budget allocations.
International grants from organizations like the Ramsar Secretariat and Global Environmental Facility (GEF).

Public-private partnerships with industries interested in climate adaptation and ecotourism.

Expected Outcomes
1. Restoration of all Ramsar sites to their original ecological boundaries.

2. Increased biodiversity and improved water quality across wetlands.

3. Reduction in flooding risks through enhanced drainage and hydrological functions.

4. Economic empowerment of local communities through sustainable livelihood programs.

5. Strengthened public awareness and engagement in wetland conservation.

Conclusion
Ghana’s Ramsar sites are invaluable natural assets that require immediate and sustained action to ensure their preservation. By adopting a holistic approach that combines restoration efforts, community engagement, and international best practices, the Mahama administration can set a benchmark for environmental stewardship. These efforts will not only protect wetlands but also enhance climate resilience, support local economies, and uphold Ghana’s commitment to global environmental conventions. 🌿✨