Shoreline Change Analysis of the Coastline of Teshie in Accra, Ghana

David Augustus Otoo; John Manyimadin Kusimi

doi:10.4314/just.v41i2.1560

Mr. David Augustus Otoo Geography and Resource Development from the University of Ghana, Legon
Dr. John Manyimadin Kusimi Department of Geography and Resource Development, University of Ghana

DOI: https://doi.org/10.4314/just.v41i2.1560

Keywords: Coastal erosion, Geographic Information System, Remote sensing, Geomorphology, shoreline analysis, Teshie

Abstract

The coastal zones of Ghana, including Teshie are attacked by coastal processes and human activities which are changing its morphology and threatening life and properties. Studies on shoreline changes in Ghana have been regionally based. However, sustainable coastal zone management of risks-prone areas focuses on specific shoreline sectors. Thus, this study was carried out in Teshie an erosional hotspot in Accra to assess the extent and the rate of shoreline change between 1986 and 2016 as well as investigate the underlying causes. The analyses of the shoreline change were undertaken using three Landsat years images 1986, 2003 and 2016. The shoreline was analysed using Digital Shoreline Analysis Systems software in ARCGIS. Field exploration and literature review were conducted to decipher the driving forces of the shoreline dynamics. Results showed that 40.7% of the entire coast was experiencing erosion with 59.3% accreting between 1986 and 2016. Average NSM accretion over the period is 12.7 m with an annual rate of 0.9 m/yr. Average coastline erosion was 10.4 m with an annual erosion rate of 0.7 m/yr. A multiplicity of natural and anthropogenic factors such as tidal and sea level rise, sand and rock mining are the driving forces for the changes in the Teshie coastline. There is the need for the development of an integrated coastal zone management policy which will include establishing a coastal protection structure and enforcing regulations on beach sand and rock mining to safeguard and protect the coastline of the locality

Author Biographies

Mr. David Augustus Otoo , Geography and Resource Development from the University of Ghana, Legon

I hold an MPhil in Geography and Resource Development from the University of Ghana, Legon. My study focal point includes geomorphology and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). In addition, I have a background in population studies, tourism, and urbanisation. I have gained practical expertise through fieldwork, internships, and research collaborations and utilising GIS software for mapping and modelling. My broad knowledge and skills make me well-equipped to contribute to the understanding of coastal dynamics and land-use patterns. With my dedication to advancing geographical knowledge and practical application, I bring valuable expertise to the field of geography and its related disciplines.

Dr. John Manyimadin Kusimi, Department of Geography and Resource Development, University of Ghana

Dr John Manyimadin Kusimi is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Geography and Resource Development, University of Ghana. He holds a PhD in Geography and Resource Development from the University of Ghana and MSc in Environmental Engineering and Sustainable Infrastructure from the Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm. Dr. Kusimi is a physical geographer with speciality in geomorphology, environmental science and natural resources management. His research has been on the impact of climate change, impact of mining activities, river sedimentation and water resource management. Others include urban hazards, coastal erosion and inundation, land use and land cover analysis.