Effects of Urbanisation on Coastal Wetland: The Case of the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis

ABSTRACT

Wetlands play important role in the sustenance of humankind but it seems the reciprocal gesture of protecting this ecosystem is on the decline. The result is the loss of wetlands, especially in the urban areas. This study set out to examine the effects of urbanisation on coastal wetlands in the SekondiTakoradi Metropolis of the Western Region. Using a mixed-method research design, 358 respondents were sampled from the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis to respond to the data collection instruments: questionnaire, Focus Group Discussion (FGD) guide and interview guide. Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) version 14 was used to facilitate quantitative data analysis while content analysis was used for qualitative data analysis. The major finding was that, urbanisation has affected wetlands in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis which has resulted in the loss of some portions of the wetlands. Again, people perceived wetlands as ‘wastelands’ which should be put to other use. One major recommendation is that residents should be sensitised by the Metropolitan Assembly and the Environmental Protection Agency for them to appreciate the value of the coastal wetlands in the metropolis. Again, there should be the co-management of the wetland resourced and the provision of alternative sources of livelihood by local authority, central government and concerned non-governmental organisations.