Urban Wetland Planning and Management in Ghana: a Disappointing Implementation

The Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (GAMA), in Ghana, has witnessed the destruction of approximately 60% of its wetlands. Wetlands provide many valuable ecological, social, economic, and recreational functions. Appreciation of the importance of wetlands has increased in recent years, consequently, wetland protection has been recognized globally through international agreements, as well as through national, regional, and local policies and regulations. Empirical studies on wetland destruction in urbanized Ghana are limited. Adopting a qualitative approach, this research examines the causes and extent of wetland destruction in the GAMA. The study reveals that measures designed and implemented to protect wetlands in the GAMA have proved ineffective due to non-implementation and monitoring of wetland protection strategies, policies and projects. These shortcomings reflect a lack of resources and participation of stakeholders in the planning, development and implementation of wetland protection policies. The study concludes with a recommendation for more direct participation of stakeholders in developing and implementing plans and strategies to manage wetlands in Ghana.