The Ghana Museums and Monuments Board (GMMB) has announced the closure of five historic coastal forts to the public with immediate effect to allow for essential maintenance and safety evaluations.
In a press release dated December 19, 2025, the Acting Executive Director of the Board, Kwest Essel-Blankson, explained that the decision was taken to safeguard both visitors and the structures.
According to him, the closure is intended to “allow for essential maintenance work, safety assessments, and ongoing conservation activities aimed at preserving the structural integrity and historical value of these significant heritage sites.”
The affected forts are Fort Apollonia at Beyin in the Western Region, Fort St. Anthony at Axim, Fort Orange at Sekondi, James Fort at Jamestown in Accra, and Ussher Fort at Usshertown, also in Accra.
The closure took effect on Thursday, December 18, 2025, and will remain in force until further notice.
These coastal forts, which are central to Ghana’s historical narrative, form part of the chain of European trading and slave forts that line the country’s coastline.
Several of them are recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, standing as enduring reminders of the trans-Atlantic slave trade and its legacy.
The GMMB, which is mandated to protect and conserve Ghana’s tangible heritage, periodically undertakes restoration and conservation works on these centuries-old structures, many of which are constantly exposed to harsh coastal conditions.
In the statement, the Board expressed regret over any disruption caused by the closure.
“We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may have caused and appreciate the understanding and cooperation of the public,” Mr. Essel-Blankson said.
The temporary shutdown is expected to affect tourism schedules, particularly for visitors exploring Ghana’s popular Castles and Forts Trail, a key pillar of the country’s cultural and heritage tourism agenda.
In recent years, government efforts have intensified to promote these sites not only for their historical importance but also for their contribution to tourism and local economic development.
