Cape Coast, known as the heart of tourism in Ghana, has been plagued by a disturbing issue that threatens to undermine its rich history and cultural significance. The Cape Coast Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of the transatlantic slave trade, has been engulfed in filth and debris, leaving visitors and locals alike in dismay.

The source of the problem lies behind the castle, where Zoomlion Ghana has placed a container, ostensibly for waste management purposes; however, the presence of this container has had the opposite effect, attracting more waste and debris to the area. The sea defenses, which were intended to protect the castle from the ravages of the sea, have instead become a dumping ground for trash, further exacerbating the problem.

The question on everyone's mind is: who is responsible for this egregious neglect? Is it the Cape Coast Metropolitan Chief Executive, who oversees the development and maintenance of the city? Or is it the Ghana Museum and Monuments Board GMMB), which is responsible for preserving and conserving Ghana's cultural heritage sites? Or perhaps it is Zoomlion Ghana, the waste management company that has seemingly abandoned its duties?



The GMMB recently painted the castle, a move intended to restore its former glory. However, the effort has been undermined by the sheer amount of filth and debris surrounding the castle. It is a shame that the very institution tasked with preserving Ghana's cultural heritage has failed to address this critical issue.



The people of Cape Coast and visitors to the castle are calling on the relevant authorities to take immediate action to address this problem. The Cape Coast Metropolitan Chief Executive, the GMMB, and Zoomlion Ghana must work together to find a solution to this crisis. The castle and its surroundings must be cleaned up, and measures must be put in place to prevent this problem from recurring.

Cape Coast Castle is not just a historical site; it is a symbol of Ghana's resilience and strength. It serves as a reminder of the country's complex past and its ongoing struggle for freedom and justice. It is imperative that we preserve this site for future generations, not just as a tourist attraction, but as a testament to Ghana's rich cultural heritage.

We urge the relevant authorities to take immediate action to address this problem. We cannot afford to let the Cape Coast Castle, a symbol of our nation's pride, be engulfed in filth and debris. It is time for us to take responsibility for our cultural heritage and work together to preserve it for future generations.

By: Richard Abakah Ankrah aka Don Papa Richie