The Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) has issued a strong caution to the public against encroaching on its lands.
In a March 18 press release, GAEC reported that unauthorized individuals have illegally broken barricades and begun grading large portions of land behind the Bohye Police Base Workshop and Ga-East Hospital.
The affected area has been earmarked for the construction of an Electron Beam Irradiation Facility, a project expected to support sustainable agriculture and ensure food safety by reducing post-harvest losses and sterilizing consumer products.
However, GAEC has observed a troubling increase in land encroachment, with activities now dangerously close to the National Nuclear Waste Management Centre, which stores hazardous radioactive waste.
GAEC warned that such actions pose significant safety and security risks to both the facility and surrounding communities.
“The Commission is increasingly confronted with a surge in encroachments, with activities now dangerously close to the National Nuclear Waste Management Centre. This centre houses hazardous radioactive waste, which is managed in strict compliance with the laws of Ghana and International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) regulations.
“These encroachments pose serious safety and security risks to both the facility and surrounding communities. Additionally, the safety of residents in the immediate catchment area is under serious threat if this security installation remains unprotected.”
GAEC emphasised Ghana’s obligation under international legal frameworks, including its commitments to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), to safeguard its nuclear assets.
It warned that failure to prevent further encroachment could damage Ghana’s global reputation and affect its standing in the international nuclear community.
“Ghana currently holds the prestigious position of Chair of the Board of Governors of the IAEA, the United Nations agency responsible for promoting the peaceful use of nuclear technology worldwide. If the land encroachment issue is not addressed swiftly, it could negatively impact Ghana’s international reputation and future opportunities. Ghana’s positive reputation and good safety record in operating a research reactor for over 30 years could be eroded,” the statement added.
