The event, which provided 200 coconut seedlings for planting at Agavedzi, a coastal community grappling with the effects of tidal waves, also serves as a strategic intervention to promote environmental sustainability, economic empowerment, and tourism development within the coastal belt.

Madam Abla Dzifa Gomashie, MP for Ketu South, and Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, emphasized the cultural and economic importance of the coconut tree to the coastal communities.

“In this coastal community, we see the coconut as a cash crop and family wealth. Generations after generations benefit from it,” she said.
She said the tree planting exercise was a way of planting wealth in the community, as it aligned with governments blue economy initiative, a development model that encompassed marine and coastal resources as drivers of economic growth.

“Our beautiful coastline from Aflao to Half Assini is a tourism product we have not fully capitalized on. World Tourism Day 2025 is an opportunity to educate our people about keeping our beaches clean. Charity begins at home hence the reason why we are starting here in Agavedzi,” she added.

Madam Gomashie said Agavedzi was intentionally chosen as the location for the event, highlighting its vulnerability to climate change impacts, especially tidal waves.
She reminded the gathering of the significant step taken under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, where the sword was cut in Agavedzi for the commencement of the second phase of the sea defence project.

Mr Nicholas Worclachie, Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Ketu South, called on the community to rally behind the MP and Sector Minister to support efforts by the Ministry to boost tourism and development in the area.
He said such initiatives were crucial to driving local economic growth and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the region.

The tree planting activity was attended by the Agency heads and selected staff, Directors, Deputy Directors and support staff from the Ministry.

The event marks a renewed commitment by Ketu South to align with global tourism goals while addressing local environmental and economic challenges.