Rev. Samuel Appiah Tyson Urges Churches to Stop Building on Waterways, Warns Against Land Guard Menace
The Head Pastor of Emmanuel Pentecostal Church, Rev. Samuel Appiah Tyson, has issued a passionate appeal to churches and religious organizations to desist from acquiring lands located on waterways, warning that such practices contribute significantly to environmental degradation and the destruction of Ghana’s natural water bodies.
Rev. Appiah Tyson, who also serves as the General Manager of Embateco Blocks Factory Company Limited at Fawode in the Kwabre East Municipality, made these remarks in an interview with the media. He stressed the need for clergy and church leaders to lead by example by promoting responsible land use and environmental stewardship.
“It is disheartening to see some churches putting up massive structures on waterways. These actions have long-term consequences such as flooding, soil erosion, and the destruction of aquatic life. As spiritual leaders, we must not contribute to the destruction of God’s creation,” Rev. Appiah Tyson stated.
The pastor emphasized that the church, as a moral compass in society, has a critical role to play in environmental conservation. He encouraged churches to seek guidance from town and country planning authorities before undertaking any construction project, particularly in areas prone to flooding.
In addition to his environmental concerns, Rev. Appiah Tyson warned the general public about the increasing activities of unscrupulous middlemen, popularly referred to as “goro boys,” and land guards who exploit unsuspecting land buyers.
“Many people have fallen victim to land fraud because they failed to conduct proper checks. Some of these so-called land agents sell one plot to multiple buyers. I strongly advise all Ghanaians to consult professional land surveyors and verify documentation with the Lands Commission before making any land purchases,” he cautioned.
Rev. Appiah Tyson lamented the rising cases of land litigation and violence stemming from these illegal practices, urging the government and traditional authorities to intensify efforts to clamp down on land guards and fake agents.
He called on traditional leaders, assembly members, and municipal authorities to collaborate and ensure that lands are properly demarcated, and protected lands such as riverbanks, wetlands, and reserved areas are not sold or encroached upon.
His dual role as both a clergyman and an entrepreneur, he said, positions him to see the intersection of morality, business, and environmental responsibility—highlighting the need for faith-based organizations to lead community development efforts without harming the environment.
Rev. Appiah Tyson’s call comes at a time when Ghana continues to battle with the effects of unplanned settlements, flooding, and land-related disputes, particularly in urban and peri-urban communities.
He concluded by urging religious leaders, developers, and the public to be guided by integrity, legality, and sustainability in all land dealings.
