Analysis of two coastal lagoons in Ghana

Two polluted Ghanaian lagoons are investigated and possible engineering solutions are suggested and researched.The first lagoon is the Sakumo lagoon, located between Accra and Tema. This lagoon is connected to the sea through a small culvert, which enables a limited amount of water exchange. Since a few years, fishermen have been unable to catch fish in this lagoon, because of invasive plants restraining them from entering the basin. The siltation rate is high due to increasing friction because of these plants and limited sediment outflow through the small culvert. Furthermore, the water quality in the lagoon is poor. An overland flow model and a mixing model are used to evaluate the effects of a change in layout of the lagoon mouth. From this, it follows that a larger connection to the sea is beneficial to the water quality while still maintaining flood safety. However, decisions on the redesign of this lagoon mouth should be made with close regard to stakeholder interests.The second lagoon is the Klottey lagoon, located in the city centre of Accra. The surroundings of this lagoon are planned to become an area of tourism. Neighbouring the lagoon, a new fishing harbour is planned. The water quality in this lagoon is poor and its water flows along the shore of Accra. The water quality in and near the lagoon is investigated with the development plans of the area in mind. Furthermore, the shoreline response as a result of these interventions is assessed.