Ramsar Sites Cannot Be Privately Owned – Fuseini Warns Against Illegal Land Claims

Protected Wetlands Must Remain Free from Private Title

Former Minister for Lands and Natural Resources Inusah Fuseini has cautioned against attempts to claim private ownership of Ghana's Ramsar sites, emphasising that these internationally designated wetlands are protected by law and cannot be held as private property.

Speaking on JoyNews' Newsfile programme, Mr Fuseini stressed that Ramsar sites are wetlands of international importance with strict legal protections against private acquisition and development. "No one can hold title on Ramsar sites," he declared, warning that any such claims violate environmental protection laws and increase Ghana's flood vulnerability.

Wetland Destruction Worsening Urban Flooding

The former minister highlighted that Ghana's persistent flooding challenges are largely driven by the destruction and encroachment of wetlands, which naturally function as drainage systems during heavy rainfall. He argued that protecting these ecological areas is critical to reducing flood impact in urban centres, particularly Accra.

His comments come after recent torrential rains triggered widespread flooding across the capital, submerging homes, roads and businesses. The disaster has reignited national debate on urban planning, environmental degradation and enforcement of land use regulations in Ghana's cities.