United Developers Limited, a real estate company with properties in and around the Sekondi–Takoradi Metropolis, has invested over GH₵100,000 in a dredging project at Airport Ridge as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative aimed at tackling persistent flooding in the area.
The project focuses on the Ayire Lagoon, which stretches from Kwesimintsim to the Airport Ridge enclave. Over the years, the lagoon has been heavily obstructed with plastic waste and silt, causing it to overflow during heavy rains and resulting in frequent floods in the Airport Ridge community.
To address this, the company has started a three-kilometer desilting and dredging effort to widen and deepen the lagoon, enabling it to better channel storm water and reduce the risk of flooding that often forces residents to temporarily relocate during the rainy season.
As part of the initiative, United Developers is also designing a net catchment system to trap plastic waste before it enters the lagoon. This system is expected to help protect the waterway while creating employment opportunities for local youth who will assist in managing waste collection.
Speaking to Almighty News during the dredging activity, United Developers Limited’s Chief Operations Officer, Mr. Prakash Lalwani, said the project was motivated by a personal connection to the area.
He explained that he grew up in Airport Ridge and felt compelled to help solve a problem that residents have faced for years.
“I grew up here in Airport Ridge and I am saddened by the annual discomfort residents have to endure. That is why my company decided to step in and support the community.”
Mr. Lalwani added that the project is being carried out in partnership with the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), with oversight from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and support from the Airport Ridge Assembly Member, Mr. Michael Kwame Doku.
United Developers Limited currently manages several real estate projects in Takoradi and the Greater Accra Region, including a gated community in Airport Ridge, which is described as the first of its kind in the Sekondi–Takoradi Metropolis.
Mr. Lalwani also urged other successful individuals and business leaders from Takoradi to invest back into the city.
“Dubai was built from a desert and now it is one of the world’s top tourist destinations. Takoradi also has great potential in tourism, hospitality, and natural beauty. It is possible to transform the city and make it a lively destination,” he stated.
He emphasized that his company wants to show that Takoradi can be elevated through private sector investment, especially in tourism and hospitality.
The Assembly Member for Airport Ridge, Mr. Michael Kwame Doku, called the dredging project a vital step in solving the community’s longstanding flooding issues.
He said that seasonal floods have often forced residents to temporarily move or stay in hotels during heavy rains.
“This project is indeed life-saving. Flooding in this community has become a serious concern,” he said.
Mr. Doku also urged residents and nearby communities to stop dumping plastic into the Ayire Lagoon, as such actions make flooding worse.
Meanwhile, NADMO Director for the Sekondi–Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly (STMA), Alhaji Abubakar, praised United Developers Limited for supporting government efforts.
NADMO DIRECTOR – STMA
He acknowledged that logistical challenges often limit NADMO’s work, and therefore commended companies and individuals who step up to aid disaster prevention.
