Dzifa Gomashie Demands Immediate Removal of Illegal Structures Around Ghana’s Forts, Castles

The Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Dzifa Gomashie, has called for the immediate removal of unauthorised structures around Ghana’s forts and castles, warning that growing encroachment could undermine efforts to preserve the country’s cultural heritage.

Speaking at a symposium on the Korea-Ghana Heritage Project in Accra, Ms Gomashie expressed concern about the increasing number of illegal developments around some of Ghana’s historic monuments.

She noted that several heritage sites were under significant pressure from structures that had been erected within designated buffer zones meant to protect the forts and castles.

According to the Minister, urgent action was needed to clear the affected areas and prevent further encroachment on the country’s heritage assets.

However, she stressed that demolition exercises must be accompanied by meaningful engagement with communities living around the heritage sites.

Ms Gomashie explained that residents would be more likely to support conservation measures if they were properly educated about the historical and cultural importance of the monuments.

She said community engagement was often neglected, making it difficult for residents to understand why government would seek to remove structures around the forts and castles.

The Minister described the level of encroachment at some locations as alarming and said the situation required immediate intervention.

She used a strong expression to highlight the seriousness of the problem, saying: “If I show you pictures of the encroachment on the buffer for the forts and castles, you will join me in doing Aluta.”

Ms Gomashie further emphasised that the protection of Ghana’s heritage sites should not be considered the sole responsibility of government.

She called for stronger cooperation between traditional authorities, local communities, state institutions and other stakeholders to protect the country’s historic sites.

The Minister said a collective approach would be critical to preventing further encroachment and ensuring that Ghana’s forts, castles and other heritage properties are preserved for future generations.