The West Africa Coastal Areas (WACA) project sites in Greater Accra notably Shaibu in the Ablekuma West Municipal Assembly and Jamestown in the jurisdiction of Accra Metropolitan Assembly was visited by a team from Ministry of Science and Technology (MEST), World Bank, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and the District Assemblies on 16^th April, 2025.

The MEST team was led by Dr. Memuna Mattah and the World Bank team was headed by Mr. Raymond Kirwa whilst Mr. Peter Asiedu the Executive Director of Nurture Nature Foundation (NNF) together with Mrs. Vida Akekodaga the Chief Executive Officer of Fill the gap Africa (FTGA) represented the CSOs under Coastal CSOs Forum (CCF) in conjunction with Hon. Daniel Tagoe the Assembly Member of Shaibu Electoral Area representing the District Assembly.

CONCERNS AT SHAIBU

At Shaibu, the team major concern was to analysis the current community landscape as a result of coastal erosion causing damage to buildings and the main road. Mr. Raymond Kirwa asked of the local or community stakeholders’ involvement in WACA project, which Mr.Daniel Nortey of MEST in response addressed that there is 135 community committee members in all the designated project areas whose responsibilities among others is monitoring of all activities and giving feedback to CCF Coordinator.

Mr. Raymond Kirwa further asked about the structure of the community committees and whether it was based on family and friends, for the answer, Hon. Daniel Tagoe, said that he played an instrumental role in the community committee membership selection with fairness and general acceptance by the community leaders. Adding to that Mr. Peter Asiedu indicated that persons with disability are represented on every community committee to promote all-inclusiveness in the community committee, which was applauded by Mrs. Sarah Boasiako a member of the World Bank team.

Mrs. Sarah Boasiako asked whether the community committee have an office they operate from, which Mr. Peter Asiedu answered that District Assemblies are part of the stakeholders which allow the community committee members space when needed for activities.

Mr. George Mawuli a community committee member asked whether the construction of the ongoing groynes, is part of the WACA project, which Mr. Daniel Nortey replied it was not part of WACA project, rather it was initiated by the previous government to check the devastating coastal erosion affecting the livelihoods of the community dwellers.

Comparing the groynes at Glefe to that currently at Shaibu, Mr. David Addoquaye who was part of the attendees said that of Glefe is much fortified and has withstand the test of time, but he wonders if same can be the case at Shaibu, in his reply Mr. Daniel Nortey said all the needful assessment will be carried out by consultants to ensure sustainability of the intervention to prevent future coastal erosion to save the landscape.

Mrs. Sarah Boasiako asked whether there is a concept note for the training of community committee members on grievances redress resolution, which Mr. Daniel Nortey replied in the affirmative, adding that such training will be organized for both Volta and Greater Accra region teams in different clusters for a period of one week, she thus requested for a copy for the World Bank team.

The duration of the WACA project span was also a major concern by Mr. Nii Aflah who is part of the attendees’ to assure the completion of the groynes, in response Mr. Daniel Nortey replied that it will done by Ghana Hydrological Authority within the time scheduled for their mandate. 

CONCERNS AT JAMESTOWN

At Jamestown, the team major concern was the issue of waste deposit at the shore although there is much evidence of coastal erosion effect causing damage to culverts along the estuary bridge, make shift structures along the shore which is eroding towards the main road. 

The head of World Bank team was so amazed of the waste predicament at the shore which is mainly composed of insulators, coconuts shells and broken food packages. However a careful observation of the waste deposit shows absolutely collection of waste plastics bottles and sachet rubbers, which is clearly positive of segregation of waste to added value on plastics.

The first question asked by Mr. Raymond Kirwa was why the shore is covered with such avalanche of waste, in response Mr. Maxwell Adjei a member of the community committee explained that the Korle lagoon is a carriage route for waste from the inland drainages which is emptied into the sea. He also stated that all the dwellers in the make shift structures along the coast deposit their waste at the shore as payment of the waste deposit charges is a challenge for most of them. In addition he said the skip bin provided is inadequate and easily get filled up leaving room for no choice than to dump the waste generated to the shore or into the sea by the coastal dwellers.

Below is the summary outcome of the meeting when Mr. Raymond Kirwa asked what can be done to prevent the waste from entering the sea, which Mr. Peter Asiedu responded with mutual consensus with MEST team and community committee members.

® The installation of fortified litter trap to withstand the high volume of water pressure from inland through the Korle lagoon estuary into the sea.

® District Assemblies in the catchment jurisdiction of the Korle lagoon must redesign drainages which can prevent waste from entering into the Korle lagoon.

® National policy for waste segregation law to ensure segregation of waste at source, which will allow Bola taxis and skip bin trucks to have different sacks to separate waste collections from source before disposal at the dump site, which Mrs. Sarah Boasiako commended the Bola taxis persistence in using different sacks for waste such as plastics, paper and cans however she insisted the skip bin trucks need to emulate equally.

® MEST to foster sustainable support for CSOs in coastal management to engage in regular coastal cleaning campaigns.

® The WACA team to provide periodic report in all designated areas to access the success of the project.

REPORT BY: PETER ASIEDU

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF NURTURE NATURE FOUNDATION.

REPORT BY PETER ASIEDU – EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF NURTURE NATURE FOUNDATION

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By Samuel Owusu-Aduomi

Nurture Nature Foundation (NNF) joined forces with Plastic Punch, Ecozoil Limited, and Societe Generale Bank Ghana to organize a high-impact beach cleanup event at the Kumasamba La Bamba Beach in Accra. The event, held under the themes of sanitation, sustainability, and behavior change, drew dozens of volunteers, local stakeholders, environmental experts, and bank staff to restore and rejuvenate the once-littered shoreline.

This cleanup operation, more than just an environmental gesture, represented a fusion of science, sustainability, and social responsibility. It highlighted how partnerships between NGOs, the private sector, and civic-minded organizations can create long-lasting, measurable impacts on Ghana’s natural ecosystems, particularly in the fight against marine plastic pollution.

A Shared Vision for a Cleaner Future

The initiative was not just about picking up plastic—it was a strategic, scientific, and community-centered campaign. It was driven by a collective realization that plastic pollution in Ghana’s coastal areas poses a critical threat to biodiversity, marine life, public health, and tourism.

Peter Asiedu, Executive Director of Nurture Nature Foundation (NNF), captured the significance of the occasion, stating:“This beach cleanup exercise is a true reflection of what can be achieved when civic organizations and corporate institutions join hands. The Citizen Science Methodology used today allows ordinary people to contribute meaningfully to scientific data collection, environmental education, and practical action. The results have been very impressive.”

Asiedu emphasized that for true change to occur, community involvement and behavior change must go hand in hand with clean-up exercises. According to him, “It’s not just about cleaning today; it’s about sustaining the cleanliness by changing our waste disposal habits and educating the next generation.”

Corporate Commitment: Société Générale Bank’s Role

The event was significantly bolstered by the presence and support of Société Générale Bank Ghana, whose staff, led by Managing Director Mr. Hakim Ouzzani, actively participated in the exercise. Dressed in branded ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) gear, bank employees took part in sorting, segregating, and collecting waste along the coastline.

Mr. Ouzzani remarked: “Our participation today aligns with Société Générale’s global commitment to sustainable development. As a bank, we not only manage financial capital but also recognize the importance of preserving natural capital. This initiative is an example of how corporate social responsibility (CSR) can be translated into real action that benefits our communities and our environment.”

The bank’s commitment was part of its broader SGBG Clean Up Ghana Campaign, which falls under its ESG strategy and aligns with multiple United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including: UNSDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, UNSDG 14: Life Below Water, UNSDG 15: Life on Land.

Ouzzani also underscored the need for financial institutions to invest not just in economic growth, but in environmental sustainability. “This is not an isolated event,” he said. “We hope to inspire a broader culture of environmental awareness and action among corporate Ghana.”

The Plastic Punch Impact

At the heart of the exercise was Plastic Punch, a Ghana-based environmental NGO that has emerged as a key stakeholder in plastic waste management, particularly in Ghana’s coastal zones. The organization brought technical expertise in waste data collection, waste segregation, and public education.

One of Plastic Punch’s most impactful contributions was demonstrating how collected plastic waste—particularly plastic bottles, sachet water bags, and fishing nets—can be recycled and transformed into useful products, such as eco-bricks, plastic lumber, and household items. This approach promotes the circular economy, where waste is viewed not as garbage, but as a resource.

Plastic Punch’s educational team also engaged participants in short training sessions during the cleanup, explaining the ecological impact of plastic on marine life. One volunteer was surprised to learn that plastic waste consumed by fish could end up on dinner plates, causing serious health issues over time.

The Role of Ecozoil

Ecozoil Limited, known for its contributions to environmental sanitation and marine ecosystem protection, provided critical logistical and technical support for the event. Their staff facilitated waste handling, transported collected refuse to proper recycling and disposal facilities, and ensured safety protocols were followed.

Ecozoil has been instrumental in cleaning Ghana’s coasts for years, especially around key tourist and fishing hubs. Their collaboration with NNF and Plastic Punch helped ensure that this exercise was not a one-off event but part of a sustained environmental intervention program.

According to an Ecozoil representative:“Maintaining our beaches isn’t only about cleaning—it’s about changing attitudes. We are proud to collaborate with organizations like NNF and Plastic Punch who are driving long-term change.”

Community Involvement and Education

One of the most inspiring aspects of the event was the diverse participation from community members, local youth groups, and environmental clubs. Children as young as 10 joined in, collecting litter and learning first-hand about the importance of ocean health. Several working teams even engaged in impromptu beach soccer once the area was cleared—a testament to how quickly a polluted environment can be transformed into a vibrant, communal space.

The event was designed with a Citizen Science approach, where volunteers were taught how to categorize waste, record their findings, and understand the environmental data being generated. This approach bridges the gap between scientific research and public action, giving people the tools and knowledge to make informed decisions about their environmental footprint.

Key Highlights and Results

The beach cleanup exercise at Kumasamba La Bamba Beach yielded outstanding results, reflecting the strong coordination, commitment, and collective effort of all participating groups. One of the most remarkable achievements was the collection and sorting of over 500 kilograms of waste, much of which would have otherwise ended up polluting the ocean or harming marine life. This effort showcased the tangible difference a single well-organized initiative can make in restoring coastal environments.

The cleanup brought together four major organizations—Nurture Nature Foundation, Plastic Punch, Ecozoil Limited, and Société Générale Bank—each playing a crucial role in logistics, education, technical expertise, and manpower. Their collaboration exemplified the power of cross-sector partnerships in advancing sustainability goals.

The event saw the active participation of over 80 volunteers, including staff members from Société Générale Bank, environmental experts, local youth groups, and civic-minded individuals. This broad engagement fostered a sense of community ownership and responsibility for the protection of natural spaces.

A key component of the exercise was the segregation of waste into various categories, including plastic, metal, glass, and organic materials. This approach not only ensured efficient recycling and disposal but also educated participants on the importance of proper waste management practices.

In addition to the physical cleanup, educational sessions were held to inform volunteers about the dangers of plastic pollution, its impact on marine ecosystems, and the importance of sustainable waste practices. These interactive discussions helped deepen the understanding of environmental issues while equipping participants with practical solutions.

Perhaps most notably, the freshly cleaned beach space was immediately reused for recreational activities, including spontaneous beach soccer matches among the volunteers. This instant transformation from a polluted site to a usable, joyful space served as a reminder of the benefits that environmental care can bring to local communities.

Sustaining the Momentum

While the event was undeniably successful, stakeholders are already planning future cleanups, education drives, and recycling initiatives. Nurture Nature Foundation has indicated plans to replicate the cleanup model across other coastal communities, with added support from academic institutions and local government.

In his closing remarks, Peter Asiedu emphasized the importance of maintaining the momentum:

“This cannot end today. We need every Ghanaian—individuals, companies, schools, churches—to understand that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility. NNF remains committed to facilitating these partnerships for a cleaner, healthier Ghana.”

The post NNF Joins Plastic Punch, Ecozoil, And Societe Generale Bank In Major Beach Cleanup At Kumasamba La Bamba first appeared on Nurture Nature Foundation.

On World Environment Day 2025, which was themed ‘Ecosystem restoration – a call to action for clean air, water and land’, Nurture Nature Foundation (NNF) reiterated its firm commitment to restoring natural ecosystems in Ghana and across Africa.

With clean air, safe water, and healthy land declared fundamental rights, NNF used the occasion, which was observed on June 5, 2025, to highlight urgent environmental threats and launch a renewed call for collective action.

 The state of our ecosystems

• Air quality crisis

Urban and peri-urban air pollution – driven by burning electronic waste and emissions from aging vehicles – poses a serious health risk. Toxic pollutants such as lead, mercury, dioxins and fine particulate matter (PM) are on the rise.

• Threats to water-bodies

Illegal mining, plastic litter, sewage and industrial discharge have degraded Ghana’s rivers, wetlands and coastal areas. These ecosystems, vital for biodiversity and local economies, are under severe pressure.

• Waste mismanagement

Poor waste systems in cities lead to mixed refuse choking landfills and blocking drains, aggravating flooding and pollution.

• Shrinking forests

Uncontrolled logging, mining, and clearing for agriculture have led to rapid deforestation, jeopardising biodiversity and accelerating climate change.

NNF’s key demands for restoration

1. Safeguard Air Quality

• Adopt chamber-burning for ewaste to reduce toxic emissions.
• Phase out over-aged vehicles and promote cleaner transport through incentives.
• Roll out national air-quality monitoring to inform policy and public awareness.

2. Protect water systems

• Enforce regulations against pollution in rivers, lagoons and wetlands.
• Launch community-led clean-ups and restoration projects.
• Invest in wastewater treatment to curb raw effluence in water-bodies.

3. Improve waste management

• Enact and implement national policies mandating household waste segregation.
• Run educational campaigns on recycling and composting across Ghana.
• Partner with private sector actors to build recycling value chains and create economic opportunities from waste.

4. Revive the community clean‑up tradition

• Reinstate monthly communal clean-up days with municipal support, enhancing civic pride and flood control.
• Engage youth leaders and traditional authorities in leading these efforts.

5. Halt deforestation and promote reforestation

• Crack down on illegal logging and charcoal production.
• Accelerate community treeplanting campaigns, prioritising native, resilient species.
• Embed environmental education and tree-planting in school curricula.

Partnership and collaboration

NNF emphasises that sustainable environmental restoration demands cooperation. The foundation works closely with partner organisations such as Fill the Gap Africa, Street Children Empowerment Foundation, Obibibroni Peace Centre, and Help Foundation Africa.

Together, these groups advance youth empowerment, urban resilience and community education, in line with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals – particularly SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

A call to action

Peter Asiedu, NNF Executive Director, urged Ghanaians to move beyond words on World Environment Day: “The environment is not an inheritance from our ancestors – it is a loan from our children… Let us act boldly to restore and protect our ecosystems”.

NNF is calling on individuals, institutions, and policymakers to: plant trees, pick up litter, say no to illegal logging, join clean-up efforts, and promote policy reforms.

By uniting across sectors, NNF believes that real environmental stewardship can be achieved for today, tomorrow, and generations to come.

The post Nurture Nature Foundation enjoins public to be ‘ecosystem restorers’ on World Environment Day first appeared on Nurture Nature Foundation.

By Samuel OWUSU-ADUOMI

Accra, has become synonymous with perennial flooding during the rainy seasons. Every year, as the skies open up and the rains persist for days, the city grapples with flooded streets, submerged homes, disrupted livelihoods and, tragically, loss of lives.

The flooding incidents that have plagued Accra recently are not isolated occurrences but part of a recurring pattern that highlights the fragility of the city’s infrastructure and urban planning.

In the past week alone, relentless rainfall caused extensive flooding across several metropolitan areas, with low-lying neighbourhoods like Adentan and Teshie bearing the brunt.

The consequences have been devastating: road networks rendered impassable, businesses forced to close, schools shut down and families displaced. Reports confirm that at least three lives have been lost in recent floods, a stark reminder of the human cost of environmental mismanagement.

But flooding is not just a natural disaster; it is a symptom of deeper structural issues—unregulated urban expansion, poor waste management clogging drainage systems and encroachment on natural waterways.

Over the past decades, the expansion of settlements into wetlands and floodplains, often driven by inadequate land-use enforcement, has left Accra vulnerable to the whims of heavy rainfall and climate change.

Harnessing nature’s protective power

Restoring and enforcing riparian buffer zones along Accra’s waterways presents a compelling solution to mitigating flooding, often an overlooked issue in urban planning. Here’s a breakdown of why these buffer zones are crucial and their multifaceted benefits:

1. Water absorption and runoff reduction: Riparian buffer zones act like natural sponges. The vegetation, including trees, shrubs and grasses, absorbs rainwater. This absorption slows down the runoff, which reduces the volume and velocity of water entering drainage systems during heavy rains. This mechanism helps prevent sudden and overwhelming flooding in urban areas.
2. Erosion control: The roots of plants within buffer zones stabilise the soil along riverbanks. This stability is crucial as it prevents erosion and reduces the risk of riverbank collapse, which can further exacerbate flooding and sedimentation in water bodies and drainage channels.
3. Water quality improvement: Buffers serve as a natural filter for pollutants and sediments carried by surface runoff. Before reaching rivers, streams or lakes, the vegetation captures and retains these contaminants, significantly improving the water quality downstream. This benefit is especially important for urban areas like Accra, where runoff often carries pollutants from streets, industrial areas and agricultural lands.
4. Biodiversity and recreation: These zones provide essential green spaces within urban environments. They support a diverse range of plant and animal species, enhancing urban biodiversity. Moreover, these green areas offer residents recreational opportunities such as walking trails, birdwatching and simply enjoying nature, contributing to improved mental and physical well-being.
5. Aesthetic benefits: Beyond their functional roles, riparian buffer zones enhance the visual appeal of urban landscapes. They soften the harsh urban environment with greenery and natural features, making cities more pleasant and attractive places to live.

In summary, investing in riparian buffer zones is not just about flood prevention but also about promoting sustainable urban development.

These zones integrate ecological principles into urban planning, offering a range of benefits that improve both the environment and quality of life for city residents.

This holistic approach to water management is increasingly recognised as essential in mitigating the impacts of urbanisation on natural ecosystems and human communities alike.

Despite recommendations for a minimum 300-metre buffer zone along all streams and water bodies, urban encroachment and illegal construction have drastically reduced these critical areas. The consequence has been increased surface runoff and flash floods during heavy rains.

Nurture Nature Foundation advocates for the strict enforcement of buffer zones to be reinstated and protected as part of urban planning laws.

Moreover, these buffer zones could be developed to incorporate eco-friendly water transport options during the rainy season, such as small ferries and boats, which would ease traffic congestion on flooded roads and provide alternative mobility solutions.

Restructuring urban transportation for resilience

Flooding exposes the weaknesses of Accra’s urban transportation system. Roads become waterlogged or impassable, public transport services are disrupted and emergency response times increase significantly. The economic toll of these disruptions is enormous, affecting businesses, trade and daily commutes.

To address this, Accra needs a strategic overhaul of its transport infrastructure, focusing on resilience and sustainability:

• Elevated and flood-resistant roads: Building elevated roadways in flood-prone areas will ensure uninterrupted movement even during heavy rains. This engineering approach has been successfully implemented in other flood-prone cities globally.
• Integrated drainage infrastructure: Roads should be designed with advanced drainage systems capable of rapidly channelling water away, reducing standing water and associated risks.
• Multi-modal transport networks: Encouraging diverse modes of transport, including pedestrian pathways, cycling lanes and, especially, water transport where feasible will diversify mobility options and reduce pressure on any single system.
• Smart traffic management: Using real-time data and traffic sensors to manage flow during floods can help reroute vehicles away from danger zones and optimise emergency responses.
• Public awareness and community involvement: Building resilience requires not only physical infrastructure but also informed citizens who understand flood risks and alternative transport options during emergencies.

Toward adaptive, climate-resilient cities

The flooding crises in Accra are emblematic of the broader climate change challenge facing urban centres worldwide. As rainfall patterns become more unpredictable and extreme, cities must evolve into adaptive, resilient ecosystems capable of withstanding and recovering from environmental shocks.

Accra’s pathway to resilience involves:

• Green infrastructure: Incorporating green roofs, rain gardens, permeable pavements and urban wetlands to enhance rainwater infiltration and reduce runoff.
• Strict land use enforcement: Preventing construction in floodplains and wetlands, protecting natural drainage routes.
• Community-based early warning systems: Empowering communities with real-time flood alerts to facilitate timely evacuations and preparations.
• Collaborative governance: Fostering partnerships between government agencies, civil society, private sector and international bodies to coordinate comprehensive flood management.
• Education and capacity building: Training urban planners, engineers and policy-makers on nature-based solutions and climate adaptation best practices.

Drawing inspiration from the “sponge city” concept which aims to maximise urban water retention and reuse, Accra can transform its urban landscape from one that suffers from water crises to one that thrives on water balance and harmony with nature.

Peter Asiedu, Executive Director of Nurture Nature Foundation, highlights the urgency and promise of this vision:

“Our flood challenges are not just problems to be solved but opportunities to rethink how we live, move and grow as a city. By integrating nature-based solutions like buffer zones and innovating our urban transport systems, we can build Accra into a resilient city that not only withstands floods but thrives because of its harmony with the environment. The future of our city depends on the choices we make today.”

Conclusion

Addressing Accra’s flooding crisis requires a holistic and inclusive approach. It demands the will of policy-makers to enforce environmental laws, the innovation of urban planners to rethink infrastructure, the engagement of communities to protect their environment and the support of all stakeholders to invest in resilient futures.

Nurture Nature Foundation calls on the government, private sector, NGOs and citizens to join hands in protecting and restoring buffer zones, restructuring urban transportation and committing to sustainable urban development.

Together, we can transform Accra’s flood vulnerability into a blueprint for adaptive resilience—making it a city that stands strong against climate change and secures a safe, prosperous future for generations to come.

The post Nurture Nature Foundation pushes for buffer zones and resilient transport to end Accra flooding first appeared on Nurture Nature Foundation.

Executive Summary

The Global Water Dances (GWD) Community Celebration was conducted on May 31, 2025, at Lavender Hill, Accra, under the theme Nuji Wala. Organized by the Street Children Empowerment Foundation (SCEF) in partnership with Dzen Nako, Nurture Nature Foundation, and other collaborators, the event focused on raising awareness of water-related environmental issues through a combination of practical, educational, and artistic activities. Key components included a community clean-up, an environmental workshop, and a culturally appropriate performance segment.

In addition to youth and community members, the event featured participation from key Civil Society Organizations (CSOs). Notable attendees included Mr. Kyei Yamoah and the Executive Director of Help Foundation Africa. These contributions reinforced the event’s focus on integrating local practices with broader sustainability goals.

The performances adhered to the Ga traditional ban on noise-making and were delivered in acoustic formats to reflect cultural sensitivity. Youth-led creative presentations conveyed key environmental themes through spoken word, dance, and drama.

The event successfully engaged diverse stakeholders and provided a replicable model for community-based environmental education and cultural programming.

Introduction

The event commenced at 7:00 AM with the arrival of participants. This phase involved welcoming guests, distributing safety materials, assigning clean-up teams, and conducting brief orientation and icebreaker activities. Organizers ensured adherence to safety protocols and assigned logistical personnel to manage crowd control and activity sequencing. In total, 83 participants were present to commemorate the event.

The event was structured to respect cultural practices of the Ga community, specifically the observance of the annual ban on noise-making. All audio activities were restricted to acoustic levels. No sound systems or amplified devices were used. The cultural framework informed the tone and content of the program, promoting structured engagement while maintaining cultural compliance.

Opening remarks were given by Ms. Genevieve, who acknowledged the presence of stakeholders and partners, outlined the day’s program. Paul Semeh, site manager for GWD Accra 2025 and the Executive Director of SCEF, introduced the event’s purpose — to promote sustainable water practices and community involvement through education and performance.

Community Clean-Up

The clean-up segment was conducted between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM. Participants were divided into teams, each responsible for designated sections of the Lavender Hill shoreline and adjacent areas. Cleaning equipment, including gloves, waste collection bags, and basic tools, was distributed. Safety instructions were reiterated before the activity.

The clean-up aimed to address visible environmental degradation and encourage collective responsibility for sanitation. Volunteers collected waste materials such as plastics, packaging debris, and organic litter. Supervisors monitored the process and ensured proper waste collection and temporary storage for later disposal.

In total, the clean-up covered approximately 300 meters of coastline and surrounding pathways. Post-activity assessment noted improved cleanliness in targeted zones. This segment also served as a practical model for community-led environmental sanitation efforts.

Connect with the Sea

Following the clean-up, a workshop facilitated by Mr. Peter Asiedu from the Nurture Nature Foundation addressed topics on water conservation and sustainability. The session included a group discussion format, encouraging participants to consider practical actions and community-level strategies for preserving water resources. Participants included youth representatives, educators, and community leaders.

Address from Paul (SCEF Representative)

Paul, representing the Street Children Empowerment Foundation (SCEF), delivered a brief address outlining the motivation behind the event and the importance of linking youth advocacy with environmental awareness. He emphasized the role of local communities in driving sustainable practices, particularly in areas directly affected by water pollution and poor sanitation.

He noted that the theme “Nuji Wala,” meaning “water is life,” was chosen to emphasize both the urgency and the opportunity presented by water issues in Accra’s coastal communities. He also highlighted the importance of integrating cultural observances, such as the Ga tradition of silence during specific periods, into programming to promote local relevance and respect.

Paul concluded by encouraging attendees to see the event as a model for future youth-led environmental actions and thanked all partners, facilitators, and community members for their involvement.

Performance at the Shores

At 9:00 AM, the program transitioned to the Community Intimate Performance segment held along the shore. Youth groups, including Accra Dances Movement, Chale Vibz, and the Children’s Parliament, presented a series of curated artistic pieces. These included spoken word, interpretive dance, storytelling, and short dramatizations.

The performances focused on key themes such as water as a vital resource, environmental responsibility, and the impact of climate change and pollution on

coastal communities. Each group delivered content that aligned with the event’s theme and cultural guidelines, using non-amplified, acoustic methods in respect of the Ga traditional ban on noise-making.

The presentations aimed to communicate environmental messages through accessible, culturally relevant artistic formats. Audience members observed in silence, in line with the event protocol, creating a focused environment conducive to message retention and reflection. The segment served as a platform for youth to contribute meaningfully to the water sustainability dialogue using creative expression grounded in lived experience and local context.

Participation of Civil Society Organizations

In addition to community members and youth groups, the event was attended by representatives from key Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) working in environmental sustainability and community advocacy. Notably, Mr. Kyei Yamoah, a development practitioner and long-time environmental advocate, was present to observe and support the activities. He engaged in discussions around water policy and sustainable marine practices, reinforcing the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving environmental goals.

The Executive Director of Help Foundation Africa also participated in the event and contributed remarks during the gathering. He emphasized the ecological importance of the sea, describing it as a natural system that absorbs significant volumes of carbon emissions, which are otherwise harmful to the atmosphere. He stressed that the ocean’s ability to regulate environmental balance is a critical reason for communities and individuals to adopt practices that protect marine environments. His remarks supported the event’s goal of promoting responsible water and coastal stewardship among local populations.

The inclusion of these organizations provided added depth to the event’s messaging and broadened the engagement of environmental stakeholders beyond the immediate community. Their presence highlighted the importance of multi-sector collaboration in addressing the challenges associated with water pollution, climate change, and sustainable development.

Closing Remarks

The closing remarks were delivered by Solomon Abbey, an advocate for clean water. Representatives from SCEF, partnering organizations, and youth leaders provided summaries of the day’s outcomes. Key contributors, including volunteers and facilitators, were acknowledged.

The remarks reviewed the significance of combining environmental action, cultural observance, and artistic water movement. Stakeholders were encouraged to continue supporting initiatives related to water conservation and youth development.

Picture Taking

A photo session was conducted. Participants were grouped for documentation purposes. Photographs were taken by designated media personnel for reporting and archival use. Group shots included volunteers, performers, organizers, and guests.

Visual documentation was handled efficiently to respect time constraints and maintain order. After the photo session, light refreshments were provided, and participants were guided towards the exit points. Clean-up teams ensured the venue was left in appropriate condition post-event. You can find all the pictures here

Conclusion

The Global Water Dances Community Intimate Performance event successfully achieved its planned objectives. The three key components — environmental clean-up, community education, and cultural performance — were executed according to schedule and within the prescribed cultural framework.

Participant engagement was high across all segments. The use of acoustic performance methods ensured compliance with the noise ban while maintaining content delivery. The event demonstrated the effectiveness of integrating local tradition with environmental education and youth development in a public setting.

The post Community Intimate Performance Report 2025 first appeared on Nurture Nature Foundation.

Following the recent severe flooding incidents across Accra and other parts of Ghana, Nurture Nature Foundation urgently calls on government authorities, urban planners, developers, and citizens to prioritise the protection of natural buffer zones and restructure the urban transportation system to build adaptive, flood-resilient cities.

The Foundation noted that the repeated flooding caused by continuous heavy rains has resulted in devastating damage to homes, infrastructure, and livelihoods, with tragic loss of lives, adding that “these perennial floods highlight critical weaknesses in urban planning and environmental management, particularly the unchecked encroachment on natural waterways and inadequate drainage infrastructure.”

Nurture Nature Foundation advocates the immediate enforcement and restoration of riparian buffer zones — natural vegetated areas along rivers and streams — as frontline defenses against floods.

These buffer zones, according to them, absorb excess rainwater, reduce surface runoff, prevent soil erosion, and improve water quality. Furthermore, these areas can support sustainable water transportation options during floods, offering safer and more efficient mobility alternatives to overwhelmed road networks.

In addition, the Foundation calls for a comprehensive restructuring of Accra’s urban transport infrastructure, including elevated roadways in flood-prone areas, integrated drainage systems, and the promotion of alternative transport modes such as water-based transit during the rainy season. These measures are critical to minimise flood disruption and enhance the city’s resilience.

Peter Asiedu, Executive Director of Nurture Nature Foundation, opines that:

“Our flood challenges are urgent but also present a tremendous opportunity. If we restore our natural buffer zones and rethink how we move through our city, we can build an Accra that is not only resilient but also prosperous and sustainable. The time to act is now — for our people, our economy, and our environment.”

Nurture Nature Foundation urges all stakeholders to come together and commit to sustainable urban development practices that protect the environment, improve public safety, and build climate-resilient cities.

The post Nurture Nature Foundation calls for urgent action to address flood crisis in Accra first appeared on Nurture Nature Foundation.

𝗖𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗻 𝗘𝗻𝘃𝗶𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 = 𝗖𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗻 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿!

As part of our Global Water Dances advocacy, our team joined forces with Nurture Nature to hit the markets and engage the community on the importance of keeping our surroundings clean to protect our water sources.

Every action counts—from sweeping our streets to saying no to litter. A cleaner environment means safer water for everyone. Let’s dance for change and act for impact!

See more pics here: https://www.instagram.com/p/DJoT69lBc1i/?igsh=ZW5pdTdlMndrZjVk

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Strategic partners in the implementation of the West Africa Coastal Areas (WACA) project, which includes the government of Ghana, the World Bank, and civil society organisations through the Coastal CSOs Forum (CCF), have scaled up monitoring of the projects.

As part of the upscale monitoring mechanism rolled up, a high-level team representing the various actors – Ministry of Science and Technology (MEST), World Bank, Nurture Nature Foundation (NNF), Fill the Gap Africa (FTGA) and some assembly members – paid a working visit to some of the project sites in the Greater Accra region.

The WACA project monitoring team was made up of Dr Memuna Mattah, who represented MEST; Mr Raymond Kirwa, who represented the World Bank; Mr Peter Asiedu, the Executive Director of Nurture Nature Foundation; and Mrs Vida Akekodaga, the Chief Executive Officer of Fill the Gap Africa, who represented the CSOs under the Coastal CSOs Forum (CCF).

The sites visited were Shaibu in the Ablekuma West Municipal Assembly and Jamestown in the Accra Metropolitan Assembly.

The team was dismayed and disheartened at the volume of waste material deposited at the Jamestown beach, amidst evidence of coastal erosion, which has caused considerable damage to culverts along the estuary bridge.

The team also observed that makeshift structures have been constructed along the shore, which has created operational nuisances and increased illegal human activities at the shore, including open defecation, burning of waste material, and other unhealthy practices.

Mr Kirwa, representing the World Bank, expressed concern about the waste predicament at the shore, which is mainly composed of insulators, coconut shells, and broken food packages.

He therefore questioned why the shore was virtually covered with an avalanche of waste products and enquired how what can be done to prevented the waste from entering the sea.

Mr Asiedu, NNF Executive Director, and Mr Maxwell Adjei, a member of the community committee, took turns to address the World Bank officials’ concerns as they stressed that the Korle Lagoon is a carriage route for waste from the inland drainages, which is emptied into the sea through the James Town beach.

Mr Adjei also blamed the dwellers in the makeshift structures along the coast, who he claimed deposited their waste at the shore due to their inability to pay the fees charged by waste collection companies.

In addition, he said the skip bin provided is inadequate and easily gets filled up, leaving no choice but to dump the waste generated on the shore or into the sea by the coastal dwellers.

Mr Asiedu, on the other hand, suggested the installation of a fortified litter trap to withstand the high volume of water pressure from inland through the Korle Lagoon estuary into the sea.

The NNF Executive Director also suggested that district assemblies in the catchment jurisdiction of the Korle Lagoon must redesign drainage, which can prevent waste from entering the Korle Lagoon.

Mr Asiedu also called for a national policy for waste segregation to ensure the segregation of waste at source, which will allow Bola taxis and skip bin trucks to have different sacks to separate waste collections from source before disposal at the dump site.

Mrs Sarah Boasiako, also a member of the World Bank team, commended the Bola taxis for their persistence in using different sacks for waste, such as plastics, paper, and cans; however, she insisted that the skip bin trucks need to be implemented equally.

The West Africa Coastal Area (WACA) Program, including its Resilience Investment Project (ResIP 2), is a regional initiative focused on strengthening the resilience of coastal communities and areas in West Africa.

The post Ghana scales up implementation of West Africa Coastal Area Project first appeared on Nurture Nature Foundation.

The Ministry of Science and Technology (MEST) is committed to fostering sustainable support for civil society organizations (CSOs) involved in coastal management, as well as providing a platform for regular coastal cleaning campaigns.

In collaboration with strategic partners in the West Africa Coastal Areas (WACA) project, MEST and other stakeholders will produce periodic reports on designated areas to assess the project’s success. This initiative follows a recent visit by the WACA monitoring team to project sites in the Greater Accra Region.

The team visited Shaibu in the Ablekuma West Municipal Assembly and Jamestown in the Accra Metropolitan Assembly.

The monitoring visit is part of efforts to strengthen the monitoring mechanism introduced by various partners, including MEST, the World Bank, the Nurture Nature Foundation (NNF), Fill the Gap Africa (FTGA), and assembly members.

The team consisted of Dr. Memuna Mattah from MEST, Mr. Raymond Kirwa from the World Bank, Mr. Peter Asiedu, Executive Director of Nurture Nature Foundation (NNF), and Mrs. Vida Akekodaga, CEO of Fill the Gap Africa (FTGA), who represents civil society organizations under the Coastal CSOs Forum (CCF).

At Shaibu, the team focused on assessing the community’s landscape, which has been severely impacted by coastal erosion affecting buildings and roads. The team also evaluated local stakeholders’ involvement in the project and the structure of community committees, specifically examining whether they were based on family or friend networks.

Mr. Kirwa, representing the World Bank, emphasized the importance of community involvement in ensuring the project’s sustainability and fostering community ownership.

Mr. Daniel Nortey, representing MEST, explained that approximately 135 community committee members are engaged across all project areas, with responsibilities that include monitoring activities and providing feedback to the CCF Coordinator.

Mr. Daniel Tagoe, the Assembly Member for Shaibu, highlighted the assembly’s fair and transparent approach to selecting committee members, which has been widely accepted by local leaders.

Mr. Peter Asiedu of NNF noted that efforts were consistently made to ensure broad-based community committee membership, including the inclusion of persons with disabilities and women to promote inclusivity.

Mrs. Sarah Boasiako, also from the World Bank team, inquired about the training plan for community committee members on grievance redress mechanisms, requesting a copy of the training concept and manual for the World Bank team.

Mr. Nortey confirmed that training would be organized for teams in both the Volta and Greater Accra regions, with sessions planned over one week in different clusters. He promised to share the training materials with the World Bank team.

The WACA Program, which includes the Resilience Investment Project (ResIP 2), is a regional initiative aimed at enhancing the resilience of coastal communities in West Africa. The program focuses on addressing transboundary coastal challenges such as erosion, flooding, pollution, and ecosystem degradation, while promoting sustainable coastal management.

Through collaboration among West African countries, international organizations, and development partners, WACA seeks to protect and restore the ecological, social, and economic assets of coastal areas. The program also aims to mitigate the impacts of climate change and natural disasters, while improving institutional coordination and supporting sustainable coastal practices.

The post MEST to foster sustainable support for CSOs in coastal management first appeared on Nurture Nature Foundation.

The West Africa Coastal Areas (WACA) project sites in Greater Accra, notably Shaibu in the Ablekuma West Municipal Assembly and Jamestown in the jurisdiction of Accra Metropolitan Assembly, were visited by a team from the Ministry of Science and Technology (MEST), World Bank, Civil Society Organizations (CSOS) and the District Assemblies on 16^th April, 2025.

The MEST team was led by Dr. Memuna Mattah, and the World Bank team was headed by Mr. Raymond Kirwa, whilst Mr. Peter Asiedu, the Executive Director of Nurture Nature Foundation (NNF), together with Mrs. Vida Akekodaga, the Chief Executive Officer of Fill the Gap Africa (FTGA), represented the CSOS under the Coastal CSOS Forum (CCF) in conjunction with Hon. Daniel Tagoe, the Assembly Member of Shaibu Electoral Area, representing the District Assembly.

CONCERNS AT SHAIBU

At Shaibu, the team’s major concern was to analyse the current community landscape due to coastal erosion causing damage to buildings and the main road. Mr. Raymond Kirwa asked about the local or community stakeholders’ involvement in the WACA project, to which Mr.Daniel Nortey of MEST responded that there are 135 community committee members in all the designated project areas, whose responsibilities, among others, are monitoring all activities and giving feedback to the CCF Coordinator.

Mr. Raymond Kirwa further asked about the structure of the community committees and whether it was based on family and friends. For the answer, Hon. Daniel Tagoe said that he played an instrumental role in the community committee membership selection with fairness and general acceptance by the community leaders. Adding to that, Mr. Peter Asiedu indicated that persons with disability are represented on every community committee to promote all-inclusiveness in the community committee, which was applauded by Mrs. Sarah Boasiako, a member of the World Bank team.

Mrs. Sarah Boasiako asked whether the community committee have an office they operate from, to which Mr. Peter Asiedu answered that District Assemblies are part of the stakeholders, which allow the community committee members space when needed for activities.

Mr. George Mawuli a community committee member, asked whether the construction of the ongoing groynes is part of the WACA project, which Mr. Daniel Nortey replied it was not part of the WACA project; rather, it was initiated by the previous government to check the devastating coastal erosion affecting the livelihoods of the community dwellers.

Comparing the groynes at Glefe to those currently at Shaibu, Mr. David Addoquaye, who was part of the attendees, said that at Glefe is much fortified and has withstood the test of time, but he wonders if the same can be the case at Shaibu. In his reply, Mr. Daniel Nortey said all the necessary assessments will be carried out by consultants to ensure the sustainability of the intervention to prevent future coastal erosion to save the landscape.

Mrs. Sarah Boasiako asked whether there is a concept note for the training of community committee members on grievances redress resolution, which Mr. Daniel Nortey replied in the affirmative, adding that such training will be organized for both Volta and Greater Accra region teams in different clusters for a period of one week, she thus requested for a copy for the World Bank team.

The duration of the WACA project span was also a major concern for Mr. Nii Aflah, who is part of the attendees, to assure the completion of the groynes. In response, Mr. Daniel Nortey replied that it will be done by the Ghana Hydrological Authority within the time scheduled for their mandate. 

CONCERNS AT JAMESTOWN

At Jamestown, the team’s major concern was the issue of waste deposit at the shore, although there is much evidence of coastal erosion effects causing damage to culverts along the estuary bridge, and makeshift structures along the shore, which are eroding towards the main road. 

The head of the World Bank team was so amazed by the waste predicament at the shore, which is mainly composed of insulators, coconut shells and broken food packages. However, a careful observation of the waste deposit shows absolutely collection of waste plastic bottles and sachet rubbers, which is clearly positive for the segregation of waste to add value to plastics.

The first question asked by Mr. Raymond Kirwa was why the shore is covered with such an avalanche of waste. In response, Mr. Maxwell Adjei, a member of the community committee, explained that the Korle Lagoon is a carriage route for waste from the inland drainages, which is emptied into the sea. He also stated that all the dwellers in the makeshift structures along the coast deposit their waste at the shore, as paying the waste deposit charges is a challenge for most of them. In addition, he said the skip bin provided is inadequate and easily gets filled up, leaving room for no choice but to dump the waste generated to the shore or into the sea by the coastal dwellers.

Below is the summary outcome of the meeting when Mr. Raymond Kirwa asked what could be done to prevent the waste from entering the sea, to which Mr. Peter Asiedu responded with mutual consensus with the MEST team and community committee members.

® The installation of a fortified litter trap to withstand the high volume of water pressure from inland through the Korle Lagoon estuary into the sea.

® District Assemblies in the catchment jurisdiction of the Korle Lagoon must redesign drainage can prevent waste from entering the Korle Lagoon.

® National policy for waste segregation law to ensure segregation of waste at source, which will allow Bola taxis and skip bin trucks to have different sacks to separate waste collections from source before disposal at the dump site, which Mrs. Sarah Boasiako commended the Bola taxis persistence in using different sacks for waste such as plastics, paper and cans however she insisted the skip bin trucks need to emulate equally.

® MEST to foster sustainable support for CSOS in coastal management to engage in regular coastal cleaning campaigns.

® The WACA team to provide the periodic report in all designated areas to assess the success of the project.

REPORT BY: PETER ASIEDU

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF NURTURE NATURE FOUNDATION.

The post NNF and FTGA Participate in WACA Team Visit to Shaibu and Jamestown Beach first appeared on Nurture Nature Foundation.