Stakeholders are calling for the removal of buildings and a stop to farming near Wa Airport. This is because wildlife poses a growing danger to airplanes. Over 200 types of birds are now found close to the airport. These birds can fly into planes, causing serious accidents.
The problem is caused by human actions. Open dumpsites and an uncovered slaughterhouse attract these birds. Weak rules on keeping the town clean also contribute. Farming, especially rice and maize crops, draws large flocks of birds. These flocks can quickly fly into the path of landing or taking off planes. The Wa Airport Manager, Eric Nartey Yeboah, asked for this farming to stop. He noted that more than 300 birds can gather quickly.
This issue connects to bigger problems in Ghana's infrastructure and public safety. The safety of airports is crucial for national and international travel. Poor waste management affects not just local health but also national security. This situation highlights the challenges many Ghanaian airports face. Ensuring safety often requires cooperation between national bodies like the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) and local governments. Previous incidents show the real danger. In 2008, a goat on the runway almost caused a plane crash. This plane was carrying the former Vice President.
Adams Seidu, GACL's Wildlife Management Manager, detailed the bird problem. He stated that over 200 bird species were identified. He blamed human activities for this concentration. The Upper West Regional Minister, Charles Lwanga Puozuing, criticized political interference. He said influential people protect relatives who break sanitation laws. He called sanitation a major threat to the region, alongside drug abuse.
The Ghana Airports Company Limited stated it cannot pay for local waste management. Kwadwo Abrefa Sarkodie, Director of Airports Management, stressed wildlife safety is a shared duty. He urged regional leaders to include sanitation in their budget. He also warned against further building on airport land. The Minister said he would now oversee future meetings to ensure attendance. He wants to guarantee accountability from officials. This indicates a serious effort to tackle the problem effectively.