The Eastern Regional Minister, Hon. Rita Akosua Awatey, has stopped a Chinese contractor from developing the Apesu Ramsar site at Koforidua Kenkey Factory in the New Juaben South Municipality.

The Apesu Ramsar site, a wetland that serves as a drainage system for surrounding households, has been filled by a private Chinese developer.

Mrs. Awatey, accompanied by a joint security taskforce, the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), Urban Roads, and the Highways Authority, inspected the site on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, and ordered the developer to temporarily halt work.

The wetland is being filled with boulders and sand to make way for construction. She therefore imposed a temporary ban on the development of the swamp until further notice.

According to her, no matter how much they fill the Ramsar site, water will always find its level, and the consequences will be dire.
She further stated that the developers must submit documents, drainage system drawings, and architectural plans for approval. Until then, all work or development should be put on hold.

She also added that security forces would be deployed to prevent the developer from trespassing. Despite the minister’s warning, trucks were seen in full operation, conveying gravel, boulders, and other filling materials to the Ramsar site.

Mrs. Awatey's visit comes amid concerns raised by residents of Koforidua Kenkey Factory, who formally petitioned the Regional Minister, NADMO, and the EPA to intervene and prevent the Chinese developer from filling the swamp—a situation that could lead to flooding in the area.

She emphasised, "Let’s be clear, this must stop. These fillings must stop. We will not allow individuals to endanger the lives and livelihoods of Koforidua Kenkey Factory residents. The law will be enforced, and those who flout it will face consequences."

It is reported that the developers are pressuring households to sell their properties to them, as their refusal to halt the filling of the Ramsar site has created an uncomfortable living situation for residents.

The approximately 26 affected households are urging stakeholders to ensure that the Chinese contractor adheres to established building regulations.