Accra, Ghana — Environmental experts and local authorities are raising alarm over the growing impact of illegal sand winning activities along Ghana’s coastal communities, warning that the practice is accelerating erosion and putting lives and property at risk.
Residents in parts of the Central, Greater Accra, and Volta regions say large sections of beaches have disappeared over the past few years as unauthorized operators continue to remove sand for construction purposes.
Community leaders in Keta and Ada report that several homes located close to the shoreline now face constant danger during high tides and heavy storms.
“The sea keeps coming closer every year. Some families have already relocated because their buildings are cracking,” a resident said.
Environmental officials argue that excessive sand extraction weakens natural coastal defenses and increases vulnerability to flooding.
The Ghana Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has warned that if strict enforcement measures are not implemented, several coastal settlements could suffer severe environmental damage in the coming years.
Meanwhile, some construction industry operators say demand for building materials continues to fuel the illegal trade despite existing regulations.
Authorities have announced plans to intensify monitoring operations and prosecute offenders involved in unauthorized sand mining activities.
Environmental groups are also calling for increased public education and stronger community participation in protecting coastal ecosystems.
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