Volta Series: Keta Lagoon - Ghana's coastal treasure of life and livelihood

A Coastal Jewel of the Volta Region

Stretching majestically across the southeastern part of the Volta Region, the Keta Lagoon stands as Ghana’s largest lagoon and one of West Africa’s most vital wetland ecosystems.

A shimmering blend of land and water, it serves as a lifeline for fishing communities, a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, and a rising frontier for eco-tourism and aquaculture.

The lagoon’s significance extends far beyond its scenic beauty — it sustains thousands of lives and holds the potential to become a powerful engine of economic growth if given the attention it deserves.

“The Keta Lagoon is not just a body of water; it is a living ecosystem — where nature, people, and livelihood meet.”

A Source of Life and Livelihood

The Keta Lagoon Complex is a thriving ecosystem that provides food, income, and employment for residents in communities such as Keta, Anloga, and Abutiakope.

Fishing remains the mainstay of life here, with families relying on the lagoon for tilapia, shrimp, crabs, and other aquatic species.

Salt mining is another vibrant activity, supported by the area’s natural evaporation process — offering ideal conditions for sustainable production.

Together, these industries contribute significantly to Ghana’s food supply and domestic trade, serving as the backbone of the region’s informal economy.

A Haven of Biodiversity and Eco-Tourism

Beyond its economic role, the Keta Lagoon is a biodiversity hotspot.

It shelters hundreds of bird species, including migratory waterfowl and rare wetland birds, attracting ornithologists, conservationists, and eco-tourists from across the world.

This natural diversity makes the area ideal for eco-tourism — with potential for birdwatching trails, guided boat rides, and cultural exchanges that connect visitors to the beauty and traditions of the Volta Region.

“From migratory birds to coastal traditions, Keta Lagoon embodies the harmony between people and nature.”

Rising Challenges to a Fragile Ecosystem

Like many of Ghana’s natural treasures, the lagoon faces mounting challenges — from pollution and illegal fishing to land encroachment and climate change.

These threats, if left unchecked, could severely undermine the lagoon’s ability to support livelihoods and maintain ecological balance.

Urgent and coordinated action is needed to restore and protect this critical ecosystem — through enforcement of environmental laws, community education, and sustainable resource management.

Unlocking the Lagoon’s Potential

If the government prioritises the development of the Keta Lagoon Basin, the rewards will be immense. Building modern fish processing centers, enforcing fishing regulations, and investing in eco-tourism infrastructure could transform the area into a model of sustainable coastal development.

A proposed Keta Lagoon Development Authority could coordinate conservation efforts, tourism management, and economic initiatives — while empowering local communities with education, innovation, and access to resources.

“A well-managed Keta Lagoon can anchor Ghana’s blue economy and serve as a model for sustainable coastal progress.”

Driving Ghana’s Blue Economy

With proper management, the Keta Lagoon could become a key pillar of Ghana’s blue economy, generating jobs in aquaculture, salt production, transport, and hospitality.

The region’s scenic coastline — if developed with eco-friendly resorts and nature lodges — could attract both local and international visitors, boosting tourism revenue and local enterprise.

Moreover, preserving the lagoon’s wetlands would help combat coastal erosion and climate vulnerabilities, protecting nearby homes, farmlands, and cultural heritage sites.

The Spirit of Community and Renewal

The story of the Keta Lagoon is one of resilience and renewal. For generations, it has been the heart of Volta’s coastal identity — where tradition meets survival.

Women play a pivotal role in fish processing and trade, while young people are increasingly venturing into eco-tourism, environmental conservation, and creative entrepreneurship.

This deep community bond with nature makes the lagoon not only an economic asset but a cultural treasure.

A Future Flowing with Opportunity

If authorities and stakeholders invest consistently in preserving and developing the Keta Lagoon, Ghana will gain much more than tourism income.

It will gain stronger communities, restored ecosystems, and a resilient model of sustainable regional development.

The Keta Lagoon reminds us that nature and progress are not opposing forces — they are partners in the same journey.

When nurtured wisely, the lagoon can become a symbol of renewal, pride, and prosperity for generations to come.

“The time to invest in the Volta Region’s coastal treasure is now — because a thriving Keta Lagoon means a thriving Ghana.”