Effects of urbanization on coastal wetlands in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis, Ghana

Abstract

Abstract. Dadzie-Paintsil E, Mensah JV. 2022. Effects of urbanization on coastal wetlands in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis, Ghana. Indo Pac J Ocean Life 6: 94-105. Wetlands play an important role in the livelihood of humankind; on the other hand, the reciprocal gesture on ecosystem protection is on the decline. The result is the loss of wetlands, especially in urban areas. This study examined the effects of urbanization on coastal wetlands in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis of Western Region Ghana. Therefore, using a mixed-method research design, 358 respondents were sampled from the metropolis to respond to the data collection instruments: questionnaire, interview, and Focus Group Discussion (FGD). The Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) program version 14 was used to facilitate quantitative data analysis, while content analysis was used for qualitative data analysis. The major finding was that wetlands in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis was affected by urbanization, resulting in the loss of some portions of the wetlands. Furthermore, wetlands were perceived as 'wastelands' which should be used for other use. One major recommendation is that residents should be sensitized by the Metropolis Assembly and the Environmental Protection Agency to appreciate the value of the coastal wetlands in the metropolis. Again, there should be the co-management of the wetland resources and the provision of alternative sources of livelihood by the local authority, central government, and concerned non-governmental organizations.