The Member of Parliament for Weija-Gbawe, Jerry Ahmed Shaib, has attributed the persistent flooding in his constituency to widespread encroachment on wetlands and waterways, warning that illegal developments are worsening the impact of heavy rains.
Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on July 3, 2026, in the aftermath of the June 29 floods, Mr. Shaib said the extensive development of wetlands, including the Densu Delta Ramsar Site, has obstructed the natural flow of water, leaving surrounding communities vulnerable to flooding.
According to the MP, areas that were once protected wetlands have been transformed into densely developed residential and commercial settlements despite efforts to prevent encroachment.
He alleged that several private developers and major companies have constructed buildings within the wetlands, raising concerns over what he described as weak enforcement of planning regulations.
Mr. Shaib also recalled that President John Dramani Mahama, during a visit to the area last year, directed that a committee be established to address the growing encroachment.
However, he expressed disappointment that no visible action has been taken since the directive was issued.
The legislator argued that the unauthorised developments have blocked natural drainage channels, causing floodwaters to overflow into nearby communities whenever heavy rains occur.
He called on the government to urgently reclaim encroached wetlands and demolish illegal structures, stressing that enforcing planning regulations is essential to finding a lasting solution to flooding in Weija-Gbawe.
Mr. Shaib also appealed to the media to investigate the extent of development on Ramsar sites, describing the encroachment as a major factor behind the constituency’s recurring flood challenges.
