The Volta Region branch of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has issued an urgent appeal to the government to offer crucial assistance to the 145 healthcare professionals impacted by the flood event resulting from the Akosombo Dam’s water spillage.
In their statement released on Monday, October 30, the party reported that the affected health workers consist of 76 individuals in South Tongu, 51 in North Tongu, and 18 in Central Tongu.
“This imperative assistance is crucial at the moment to empower these workers and other such essential paramedics to effectively address the health crisis facing the other thousands of victims taking refuge in safe havens and temporary shelters.
“In the wake of this catastrophic flooding incident, our health workers especially have shown unwavering dedication and commitment to the welfare and recovery of our fellow citizens who have become victims. They have since the disaster been conspicuous on the front lines, tirelessly working to provide medical care, essential services, and support to the affected individuals and communities,” portions of the statement read.
The party also outlined four key areas where they believe the government should concentrate its efforts in responding to their request.
Provide financial assistance to the affected health workers and other essential public sector employees to help them recover from the flood-related losses they have incurred.
Ensure the availability of safe and suitable accommodations for these workers and their families to alleviate the burden they currently face.
Facilitate access to psychological and emotional support services to those who require same now in order to help them cope with the trauma they have witnessed.
Specifically provide an immediate assistance to the Richard Novati Catholic (Comboni) Hospital, which was submerged by the flood waters and had to be completely shut down. An urgent financial and logistical intervention will not only bring the facility back on its feet and as well save the jobs of some 51 employees whose livelihoods were badly affected by the flood, but will also help them fully resume service delivery to the people in South Tongu and beyond. The current pressure being witnessed on the District Hospital facilities will thus be drastically reduced.
The Ghana Association of Barbers and Barbering Salon Owners (GABBSO) has joined the numerous institutions offering assistance to the thousands of individuals displaced due to the spillage of the Akosombo dam.
In a Twitter post, MP for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, expressed his gratitude to the association for offering free haircuts to displaced persons.
Since the spilling of the Akosombo Dam on September 15, which has led to flooding in several communities such as Battor, Tefle, Mepe, Sogakope, Adidome, and Anlo, many individuals and organisations have gone to the aid of victims.
Many donations have been made, and as the problem remains despite the receding water, other donations will be made.
Former Black Stars captain, Stephen Appiah, Wembley Construction, UN’s World Food Programme, Unilever Ghana, Genser Company, Ghana Red Cross Society, Hot Oven bakery and Power of Worship International are among institutions that have contributed their quota to alleviating the plight of affected families.
Fumigation and disinfection operation has been embarked by the Volta River Authority (VRA) in the communities impacted by the flooding caused by the Akosombo Dam spillage.
Residents in areas like Mepe in the Volta Region’s North Tongu District, where floodwaters are gradually receding, are anticipated to participate in the disinfection operation.
The VRA’s Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, Ing. Kwame Osei Mensah Darkwa, emphasized the organization’s commitment to guaranteeing the safety and habitability of residences, public areas, and the entire community after the floods in an interview with Joy News.
“The VRA contracted Zoomlion to carry out fumigation and decontamination exercises in the areas where the water has receded significantly to make it safe for habitation again. So essentially we have the assembly represented by the safety officer, a representative from the traditional council, a chief executive and the intention is to go to the areas we’ve inspected and we want them to be dry for them to start some form of decontamination of the place.”
Asked whether all other districts affected by the flooding would also be fumigated, Ing. Dankwa said that “Of course, when it becomes necessary. So we are looking at it, for today our intention is to tackle the Mepe area.”
The District Chief Executive of the North Tongu Assembly, Divine Osborne Fenu, praised the VRA for its timely initiative.
But before going back to their houses, he advised the locals to wait until the fumigation process was finished.
Mr. Fenu clarified that in order to make sure the residences are safe, they urge the occupants to exercise caution until all inspections and fumigations are completed.
“We are appealing to all of them to remain calm, to stay where they are currently. Until those places are fumigated and the structural engineering inspection is done to ensure that the buildings are safe before they move in. We don’t want buildings collapsing on human beings, on anybody.”
A Member of Parliament (MP), Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has emphasized the necessity of a compensation package for those affected by the Akosombo Dam spillage.
He asserted that the scale of destruction and devastation demands the inclusion of compensation in the forthcoming 2024 budget.
“Compensation is non-negotiable and we are uncompromising about that. I am glad that I led the Finance Minister to a number of the worst affected communities. It is just a few days ahead of the 2024 budget and I expect to see a line item in the budget dealing with compensation. There are two important things that we must work on urgently and fast; resettling because as long as the twenty-one camps continue to exist in schools, children can not have access to the schools for education to resume. We also need the compensation urgently because people have lost everything, livelihoods and properties are gone, and we need to get a compensation budget to help the people rebuild their lives.”
Mr Ablakwa expressed optimism in the Finance Minister’s visit to the affected communities and called for a clear commitment to compensation in the 2024 budget.
“I am glad the Finance Minister has been here and has seen things for himself and has seen how bad things are and have also seen how precarious the situation is, and I will want to see a reflection of his visit in the 2024 budget.”
Furthermore, he urged residents not to immediately return home once the floodwaters recede, citing the risk of contaminated environments and advocating for support from the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) in managing this process.
“I am appealing to people not to go back home when the water recedes because these were homes that were submerged under contaminated water,” Ablakwa said. “I have appealed to the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) to cordon off all of these homes and keep educating the people not to rush home in an attempt to salvage what is left.”
The Director of Conflict Resolution of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Abraham Amaliba, has criticized the government’s response to the Akosombo Dam spillage and its impact on multiple regions.
Speaking to the media, Mr Amaliba characterized the government’s reaction as “shambolic, shameful, and disrespectful,” highlighting what he sees as a lack of sensitivity towards the affected people, especially in the Volta Region.
He went on to criticize President Akufo-Addo, who was abroad during the crisis, for not returning home immediately.
“The government’s response to the spillage of the Akosombo Dam is, to me, shambolic, shameful, and, above all, a disrespect to the good people of the Volta,” Amaliba said. “When this flooding hit, the president was far away in Europe.”
“In serious democracies where the presidents have love for their people, they will cut short their visit and say that there is a disaster back home, but our president did not do that. It simply shows you the kind of care that this government gives to the people in this country, and particularly to the people of the Volta Region. This government simply does not care.”
Mr Amaliba remarked that leaders in more caring democracies would cut short their trips to address such disasters.
Mr Amaliba also pointed out the insensitivity of some government appointees and members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) regarding the disaster, mentioning the NPP’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, for making what he considered reckless and insensitive remarks.
The National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) has provided assurance that households impacted by the Akosombo Dam spillage will receive assistance to aid their recovery from the disaster.
Mr. Eric Nana Agyemang-Prempeh, the Director-General of NADMO, offered this assurance while inspecting relief items intended for distribution to the affected individuals. The inspection took place in Battor Dugame, situated in the North Tongu District of the Volta Region on Friday.
The relief items included toiletries, bags of rice and sugar, medications, plastic buckets, bowls, mattresses, canned foods, and bottled water.
Nana Agyemang-Prempeh emphasized NADMO’s unwavering commitment to coordinating response efforts to address the situation. He stressed that natural disasters do not discriminate based on tribe, political beliefs, or religious affiliations and called for unity and support for the victims.
“NADMO will continue to carry out its mandate of coordinating all response efforts to manage disasters because when it strikes it doesn’t know tribe, political affiliation, or religion, so let’s unite and support our brothers and sisters who have been affected by this flooding as a result of the harsh realities of climate change,” he said.
The inspection was attended by various dignitaries, including traditional rulers and government officials. Among them were Madam Fatimatu Abubakar, Deputy Minister of Information, and Seji Saji, the Deputy Director of NADMO.
Madam Abubakar expressed the government’s deep concern for the safety of those affected and underscored the government’s swift actions to protect their well-being. She noted that an Inter-Ministerial Committee has been established to ensure the effective coordination and prompt response to the needs of the victims.
The controlled spillage of the Akosombo and Kpong dams has presented significant challenges, including power outages, damage to infrastructure, and threats to the lives of residents. It has also disrupted transportation as some roads have been washed away, leaving commuters stranded. In response, some individuals have resorted to using boats and canoes, further jeopardizing their safety.
The districts most severely affected include Asuogyaman in the Eastern Region, where the Akosombo Dam is situated, as well as the North, Central, and South Tongu districts in the Volta region, and Ada East and West in the Greater Accra Region. The spillage became necessary due to high water inflows into the Akosombo reservoir, causing water levels to exceed their upper limits.
The Executive Vice President of Unilever Ghana and Nigeria, Yaw Nsarkoh, has raised concerns about the lack of response from engineers regarding the ongoing disaster caused by the spillage of the Akosombo and Kpong dams by the Volta River Authority (VRA).
Speaking at a gathering of engineers in Accra, Yaw Nsarkoh expressed his belief that the disaster would not have received the same attention from stakeholders if it had occurred in a more affluent area like Cantonments in Accra.
He emphasized that the people in Mepe, the hardest-hit communities in the disaster, are being treated as if they are of lesser importance, which is why the VRA went ahead with the dam spillage.
These remarks were made in response to the ongoing disaster resulting from the spillage of the Akosombo and Kpong dams, which has led to severe flooding and left nearly 30,000 people in approximately 11 downstream communities along the Volta River homeless, with many losing their homes and sources of livelihood.
Yaw Nsarkoh, who is also an engineer, highlighted that often organizations are not held accountable for the disasters they cause in rural communities.
He stated, “I promised somebody that I will not make any noise about VRA today. But I will only say, when we engineers get to a place where they can say to people we say you should move and you didn’t and so we have drowned you, those people have been tinnified.
“I am willing to take an oath, that could never have been done in Cantonments but the people of Mepe have been tinnified. So we do things and we just move on. But I made a promise and I will try to keep to it.
Furthermore, he asserted that there is no justification for impoverishing smaller communities to benefit larger organizations. He cited the devastating impact of illegal mining, known as galamsey, on rural communities as an example of this disparity.
Mr Narkoh questioned why some individuals are forced out of their jobs, losing their livelihoods, while larger organizations continue to profit, noting, “Why do we send somebody home so that they don’t have a salary, they can’t eat, and they can’t take care of their family, but your wealth is growing by 30%? What are you trying to improve the margin for?”
“That is the only explanation I can give, one human being sending another out of a job when his and usually his own wealth is growing by 30%. Why do we send somebody home so that they don’t have a salary, they can’t eat and they can’t take care of their family but your wealth is growing by 30%. What are you trying to improve the margin for?
“How else can I explain that we do nothing about illegal mining (galamsey), poisoning our compatriots. Would we be so quiet and indifferent and drink polluted water in Labone, Cantonment, Airport Residential area, Ridge and so on. It can only be fully explained by accepting that we see some of our compatriots as less human than us. Therefore we simply do not care enough about their conditions of existence and that is tinnification” the Executive Vice President noted.
“Fourth Republican politics has led to the tinnification of the poor electorate. They are viewed as thumbprints on the ballot paper. Else how in God’s mighty name can we live unconcerned, undisturbed and unperturbed when the April Partners Report published stark realities in June 2023 about poverty in this country,” he added.
He also discussed how the current political system in the country has marginalized and overlooked the needs of poor electorates, describing them as “thumbprints on the ballot paper” and expressing his concern about the persistent poverty in the country.
Aspiring candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer position, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, has contributed GH₵100,000.00 and provided relief items to the flood-affected individuals by the Akosombo dam spillage.
In a gesture of sympathy, Mr Kennedy Agyapong assured the affected communities of his commitment to ensure that the Volta River Authority (VRA) promptly compensates those displaced by the Akosombo Dam spillage in the Volta River.
Following the flooding of various communities due to the Akosombo Dam spillage, Mepe and other surrounding areas received various relief items from the prominent businessman and aspiring presidential candidate, Ken Ohene Agyapong.
Mr Agyapong and his team presented relief items to affected communities in Central, South, North Tongu, and Keta constituencies. The donations included 300 bags of 50kg rice, 300 packs of bottled water, 50 first aid kits, and a sum of 100,000.00 Ghanaian cedis.
Mamaga Adzo Sreku V, the Queen Mother of Mepe Traditional Area, received the donation and expressed deep gratitude to Hon. Kennedy Agyapong for his support.
Actor and politician John Dumelo gave food supplies to University of Ghana students from Mepe, a severely affected town in the Volta Region, in response to the recent Akosombo Dam spill, which resulted in 40,000 people being displaced and substantial property damage.
John Dumelo announced this on his official Twitter account.
He gave a variety of goods, such as rice, oil, canned fish, milk, eggs, and more. Additionally, he revealed that he had paid their school year’s tuition.
“On Friday 27th October, I donated various food items to Legon students who hail from Mepe and have been affected by the dam spillage back home. The items included rice, oil, fruit juices, Milo, canned fish, t-roll, powdered milk, fresh eggs etc. I also paid their tuition fees in addition. I want to thank the Legon SRC for their tremendous effort. Together we can all change lives. God bless us all. #idey4u” he posted.
This is his second donation; in the past, he gave affected Volta Region residents relief supplies.
The Lower Volta Basin experienced severe flooding as a result of the spillage caused by rising water levels in the Akosombo and Kpong hydro dams, necessitating such donations.
The Volta Region’s many districts are feeling the effects, with Battor, Tefle, Mepe, Sogakope, Adidome, and Anlo being particularly hard hit.
Residents were forced to evacuate, and numerous individuals and organizations are helping with relief efforts.
On Friday 27th October, I donated various food items to Legon students who hail from Mepe and have been affected by the dam spillage back home. The items included rice, oil, fruit juices, Milo, canned fish, t-roll, powdered milk, fresh eggs etc. I also paid their tuition fees in… pic.twitter.com/NLhQutGC10
Member of Parliament representing Sekyere Afram Plains South, Joseph Appiah Boateng, has urgently appealed to the government and various stakeholders for assistance in response to the recent flooding in his constituency.
Mr Boateng’s plea is a response to growing concerns about the neglect that his constituency has faced since the Akosombo Dam spillage by the Volta River Authority occurred.
In an interview with Kwabena Mensah Abrompah on Radio Univers on October 27, 2023, the MP emphasized the dire situation in Afram Plains, which has experienced significant devastation.
He pointed out that, despite the widespread destruction and displacement of residents, a significant portion of the relief efforts has been directed towards the Volta Region. This has left Afram Plains feeling neglected and in dire need of assistance.
“After the dam spillage, the entire community has been wiped off to the extent that you cannot even locate some of the houses. About 28 communities in the constituency have been affected.
“It seems most of the attention has been given to the Volta region people, but we are in very dire need because of the effects. I have been to the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) office in Accra about four times, and there has been no response,” he said.
“So, I am pleading on behalf of the government and all stakeholders to come to our support with relief items, dressing, food clothing, mattresses, water, and all items are welcome because most of our people are sleeping in churches and schools,” he added.
Construction work has commenced on three camps in Battor and Mepe within the North Tongu District, located in the Volta Region.
These camps are intended to provide shelter for individuals who were displaced by the flooding caused by the overflow of the Akosombo and Kpong dams.
The Construction Ambassadors organization is responsible for executing this project.
The District Chief Executive of North Tongu, Divine Osborne Fenu, has indicated that the construction sites have already been cleared, and construction of the camp structures is underway.
While the exact number of beneficiaries to be accommodated in these camps remains unspecified, the urgency of this construction is underscored by the significant number of flood victims who have lost their homes.
These individuals are eagerly anticipating the completion of the camps to secure temporary, decent living conditions.
Furthermore, in an earlier announcement made by George G. Kutortse, the Chief Executive Officer of the construction company, the project’s purpose includes relieving the pressure on schools that have been utilized as temporary shelters for displaced persons.
Mr. Kutortse highlighted the dignity of those affected, who are currently residing in classrooms without adequate facilities.
Upon completion, the camps will offer essential amenities, including washrooms, to ensure the comfort and well-being of the occupants.
The construction company is well-equipped with the appropriate technology to expedite the project, with future plans for the camps after the floodwaters recede.
Emphasizing the importance of maintaining the academic calendar in affected areas, Mr. Kutortse stressed the need for the Ghana Education Service to ensure minimal disruption to education.
Additionally, the NDC Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, highlighted the relevance of these camps, not only as shelters but also as safeguards against the spread of diseases among the displaced individuals.
He urged the displaced people to refrain from contact with contaminated water and to only consume clean water provided to them, while also appealing for further support for these affected communities.
Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has contributed GHS2 million to assist the victims of the flood triggered by the Akosombo Dam spillage.
He presented the donation during a visit to the affected areas in the North Tongu District Assembly in Mepe, Volta Region, on Friday, October 27.
The donation was received by the District Chief Executive, Divine Osborne Fenu.
Mr. Ofori-Atta expressed his gratitude and encouraged unity, saying, “Let us be encouraged, Ministry of Finance, as a family concerned about what has happened to our brothers and sisters, working with the VRA, we have brought something substantial of GHS2 million to be able to support the relief efforts that are ongoing and to thank Ghanaians for their spontaneous response.”
Regarding the flood situation, Deputy Director-General of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), Seji Saji Amedonu, reported that water levels have started to recede. He anticipated that it would take about a week for the water levels to completely subside, given the current rate of decrease. However, Mr. Amedonu emphasized that even after the water recedes, significant work would be needed before residents can return to their homes due to the high level of water contamination.
The displaced residents, who have been seeking refuge in schools and makeshift structures, may need to endure a bit longer. The government is yet to decide whether to relocate them permanently or establish more durable shelters for their accommodation.
Over the past two weeks, flood victims, resulting from the spillage of water from the Akosombo and Kpong dams, have called for government and donor assistance in resettlement efforts. There have been proposals from the Minority in Parliament to relocate the victims to the stalled Saglemi housing project. However, Deputy Minister for Information, Fatimatu Abubakar, indicated that tests are being conducted to determine if the affected areas are suitable for resettlement. She explained, “People are there testing the water to see whether the places affected are still habitable. It is that information that will inform some decisions by the committee.”
A Senior Lecturer at the University of Ghana’s School of Languages, Professor Kofi Agyekum, has entreated the National Service Secretariat to consider posting 2023/2024 personnel residing in the Volta Region to areas affected by the Akosombo Dam spillage.
In an interview on Peace FM, Professor Kofi Agyekum expressed worry over the challenges facing teaching and learning in the affected communities.
Several districts, encompassing South, Central, and North Tongu in the Volta Region, have been at the forefront of this crisis. The communities of Battor, Tefle, Mepe, Sogakope, Adidome, and Anlo have been inundated.
The schools in these communities have been flooded, and to address the issue of teaching and learning in the interim, make-shift structures have been erected.
On education, Professor Kofi Agyekum said, “What matters to me is the schools. Those in Junior High School (JHS). I’m happy to see some relief. I was so happy to see a truck with student text books. I know the students whose schools have been flooded.”
To help out with education and other matters, the senior lecturer noted that it would be wise enough for individuals rendering their services to the country to be deployed to some of the affected areas to help with the education of affected students.
“The National Service personnel have just been posted. So the National Service Secretariat should take its attention there so that this year’s personnel who are in that area, the majority of them, should be sent there to teach and help until the water recedes. So this is when we need them,” he said.
The impact of the dam spillage on the affected individuals has been profound, with over 26,000 people rendered homeless and displaced, according to the National Disaster Management Organisation (NaDMO).
The Minority in Parliament is urging the Volta River Authority (VRA) to take on the responsibility of constructing temporary pavilions for students affected by the overflow of excess water from the Akosombo Dam.
The North Tongu Education Directorate has reported that more than 14,000 students have had their academic activities disrupted due to the situation, as various classrooms are being utilized as shelters for affected residents.
Peter Nortsu-Kotoe, the Ranking Member on the Education Committee of Parliament, stated that the VRA should allocate funds to address this issue in an interview on Citi News.
“The classrooms have become safe havens for the victims, and they are occupying all the classrooms. Some of the classrooms are still under water, and so the VRA must commit some money to put up pavilions so that the schools can reopen for normal academic work to resume,” he said.
The Minority also supports the Ghana Education Service (GES) in imposing administrative sanctions on school heads who permitted JHS one and two students to participate in the 2023 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).
“The policy is that you write your examination in JHS3, and that has been the policy. So any school authority that violates that policy opens himself or herself up to any punitive measures. The Minority will not be against the GES making this policy work, otherwise, students in other schools will be disadvantaged, and the system will not be in order,” Nortsu-Kotoe said.
The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has conveyed contentment with the health status in the Tongu Districts, which were recently impacted by flooding and resultant water accumulation.
Director-General of the GHS, Dr. Patrick Kuma-Aboagye, visited various affected regions within the three Tongu Districts and emphasized in an interview that they are gratified by the absence of any disease outbreaks over the past two weeks following the disaster.
“We are quite satisfied that two weeks into this disaster, we have not had any outbreak of disease, which often happens in many countries and many places. So, we have simply come to support the districts in continuing the work they are doing,” he stated.
Dr. Kuma-Aboagye added, “We have brought some relief items, as well as mental health experts and psychologists, to assess the situation and determine what needs to be done. In the long term, those who have been displaced will need psycho-social support, and we are also here to look at the plight of the 271 health workers who are part of the displaced community.”
He also noted that any diseases currently present in the community are pre-existing.
Earlier, the Ghana Medical Association (GMA) raised a concerning issue, revealing the presence of individuals displaying symptoms of diarrhea within the emergency shelters established for those impacted by the Akosombo and Kpong Dams’ spillage.
Acting General Secretary of the GMA, Dr. Richard Selormey, made this revelation during an interview on Citi FM’s Eyewitness News.
He explained that the Association dispatched a team to assist in the rescue operations in the affected regions, and this team encountered several individuals afflicted with diarrhea and bilharzia.
“We have noted that the most common thing being found is people having malaria as well as skin diseases and respiratory conditions because most of the centres are holding a lot of people at a go and people are in close contact. We have also noticed that there are a few people beginning to show signs of diarrhea diseases and about two people are also showing signs of bilharzia,” he added.
Dr. Selormey further warned of an outbreak of waterborne diseases and urged the people to observe safety protocols while waiting for relief items.
“Our concern is the breakout of diarrheal diseases. That can be a big problem because it can quickly spread. And then also because of the crowding, respiratory tract infections. So key is the protocols we highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic which has to do with handwashing practices and advising the people not to touch things and making sure that there is good water available,” said Dr. Selormey.
The Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, Sam George, and his wife, Vera George, who serves as the CEO of the Dzata Foundation, have made a generous donation of GHS 10,000, 400 kilograms of rice, and various other supplies to aid the victims of the Akosombo Dam-Induced flood.
The items were presented to Citi FM for distribution to the affected individuals. During the handover of the items on Wednesday, October 25th, Mrs. Vera George expressed their commitment to offering support to those affected by this unfortunate situation as a modest gesture of care and compassion.
“We heard about the situation, and we feel and understand the plight of the victims, and we needed to contribute something little to support them in this difficult time. We hope this will go a long way to help ensure some relief is brought to them,” she said.
Dzata Foundation donates items to flood victims
Since the spilling commenced on September 15, the Volta River Authority has begun releasing excess water due to the elevated levels in the Akosombo and Kpong hydro dams. Nonetheless, in the subsequent weeks, numerous residents along the Lower Volta Basin have watched their homes and farms overwhelmed by the floods resulting from this intentional spillage.
Several districts, encompassing South, Central, and North Tongu in the Volta Region, have been at the forefront of this crisis. The communities of Battor, Tefle, Mepe, Sogakope, Adidome, and Anlo have been inundated.
The impact on the affected individuals has been profound, with over 26,000 people rendered homeless and displaced, according to the National Disaster Management Organisation (NaDMO).
Victims of the Akosombo dam spillage
In solidarity, various organisations, institutions, and political leaders have offered relief items and support to the stricken communities.
The Government, under the purview of the Ministry of Roads and Highways, has allocated a sum of GH¢5 million to address the road infrastructure in regions affected by the Akosombo Dam spillage.
This allocation encompasses maintenance activities, including any necessary repairs to the Lower Volta Bridge, commonly referred to as the Sogakope Bridge, in order to rectify any damage caused by the spillage.
Also, Agric Minister, Bryan Acheampong, has directed that $40 million of World Bank support funding be given to farmers in the Volta Region who have lost their farmlands as a result of the spillage of the Akosombo Dam.
Meanwhile, the Volta River Authority (VRA) says it has expended a total of GH¢9 million thus far to alleviate the suffering of the 36,000 individuals affected by the flood caused by the Akosombo Dam spillage.
This sum is a portion of the GH¢20 million fund earmarked to address the challenges faced by residents in nine districts across the Volta and other regions.
Deputy Minister for Information, Fatimatu Abubakar, has noted that the government will replace the damaged properties of citizens who have been adversely affected by the recent spillage of dams in the country.
Communities such as Battor, Tefle, Mepe, Sogakope, Adidome, and Anlo, have been submerged after the Volta River Authority (VRA) began spilling the Akosombo Dam on September 15, 2023.
The toll on the affected people has been devastating, with over 26,000 individuals rendered homeless and displaced, according to the National Disaster Management Organisation (NaDMO). Businesses such as fish ponds have been washed away.
Reacting to the devastation caused, Fatimatu Abubakar noted that government would be able to completely access the magnitude of harm caused to offer assistance.
Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, October 24, the Deputy Information Minister noted some segments of government such as the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, Ministry of Roads and Highways have made financial pledges and contribution to assuage the plight of victims.
In the event that their support is insufficient, the Central government will intervene as stated by President Akufo-Addo during his visit to Mepe to access the extend of the harm caused by the spillage, Fatimatu Abubakar said.
“The nature and quantum of what has happened can fairly be known after the water levels are completely down and then the technical people can be sent in to access.
“If it is not sufficient, because this is ongoing, as and when the assessment requires that we inject some resources into some particular areas to ensure they are able to get their farms back, fish ponds back, government will do that.
“This was mentioned by the president at Mepe, last week. He mentioned that he is aware that schools have to close down. He is aware that some farms have been lost. He is aware that some people have lost their fish ponds and we are going to commit everything to make sure we restore those properties that have been lost,” she said.
The Government, under the purview of the Ministry of Roads and Highways, has allocated a sum of GH¢5 million to address the road infrastructure in regions affected by the Akosombo Dam spillage.
This allocation encompasses maintenance activities, including any necessary repairs to the Lower Volta Bridge, commonly referred to as the Sogakope Bridge, in order to rectify any damage caused by the spillage.
Also, Agric Minister, Bryan Acheampong, has directed that $40 million of World Bank support funding be given to farmers in the Volta Region who have lost their farmlands as a result of the spillage of the Akosombo Dam.
Meanwhile, the Volta River Authority (VRA) says it has expended a total of GH¢9 million thus far to alleviate the suffering of the 36,000 individuals affected by the flood caused by the Akosombo Dam spillage.
This sum is a portion of the GH¢20 million fund earmarked to address the challenges faced by residents in nine districts across the Volta and other regions.
The Ministry of Information has updated the public on government’s efforts towards providing relief to individuals affected by the Akosombo Dam spillage.
Deputy Minister for Information, Fatimatu Abubakar, moderated the conference which saw submissions from the Volta River Authority (VRA).
Volta River Authority (VRA) says it has expended a total of GH¢9 million thus far to alleviate the suffering of the 36,000 individuals affected by the flood caused by the Akosombo Dam spillage.
This sum is a portion of the GH¢20 million fund earmarked to address the challenges faced by residents in nine districts across the Volta and other regions.
Social media platforms have been inundated with criticism in response to the comments made by Sanitation Minister, Freda Prempeh.
She placed blame on the flood victims impacted by the Akosombo Dam spillage, accusing them of not following early evacuation warnings.
The Minister’s remarks have been met with severe public backlash.
She mentioned during her address on the flood situation that the victims declined to relocate, even though the Volta River Authority (VRA) and other state agencies had issued several warnings.
“We don’t want what has happened in Akosombo to happen to us in Accra. The Akosombo spillage, even though VRA, NADMO, and the Water Resource Commission came together to educate the people in the community, did a simulation exercise at Mepe, yet they refused to leave, they didn’t want to be evacuated, they stayed there till the end when we started spilling,” she insisted.
However, a segment of the Ghanaian population has expressed their disapproval on social media, highlighting the plight of the flood victims, most of whom are currently displaced and in desperate need of assistance.
This is low even for them. It makes absolutely no sense. So when you asked them to move where did you expect them to go exactly? https://t.co/11nazNy04d
I don’t know who advises this government and it appointees. How can you make such irresponsible and damaging comments in times like this. Completely uncalled for. https://t.co/L6LimSIao9
Told to leave and go where ? Was there a clear plan communicated to them ? Who was told about the impending spillage ? How much time were they given ? Also, was it on them to monitor the rising water levels so the spillage didn’t have to be this much ? https://t.co/yAeJCG5zWR
Sanitation and Water Resources Minister, Freda Prempeh, has attributed blame to the flood victims impacted by the Akosombo Dam spillage for not adhering to early evacuation warnings issued by the Volta River Authority and other state agencies.
The Minister lamented that the victims had been reluctant to relocate despite the precautionary alerts, leading to the regrettable situation that has placed additional burdens on the government.
In light of this, she stressed that the government now needs to allocate its finite resources to provide relief items for the affected population.
“We don’t want what has happened in Akosombo to happen to us in Accra. The Akosombo spillage, even though VRA, NADMO, and the Water Resource Commission came together to educate the people in the community, did a simulation exercise at Mepe, yet they refused to leave, they didn’t want to be evacuated, they stayed there till the end when we started spilling.
“Unfortunately, look at what is happening, the government has to spend millions of money on relief items, the whole area the water is contaminated, and Ghana Water Company and Water Resources Commission will have to spend millions of money to treat the water before we can thrust into our pipes. So a stitch in time saves nine, but sometimes it is difficult to accept the situation. We cannot continue to sit down and allow these things to happen,” she told the media on Monday, October 23.
Since the commencement of the spilling on September 15, the Volta River Authority has initiated the release of excess water due to the rising levels of the Akosombo and Kpong hydro dams. However, in the weeks that followed, many residents living along the Lower Volta Basin saw their homes and farms succumb to the floods triggered by this deliberate spillage.
Several districts, including South, Central, and North Tongu in the Volta Region, have borne the brunt of this humanitarian crisis. The communities of Battor, Tefle, Mepe, Sogakope, Adidome, and Anlo, once bustling with life, now lie submerged beneath the relentless waters.
The toll on the affected people has been devastating, with over 26,000 individuals rendered homeless and displaced, according to the National Disaster Management Organisation (NaDMO).
In response, various organizations, institutions, and political leaders have provided relief items and support to the affected communities, including visits from President Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the Minority caucus have also extended their assistance to the victims during this challenging period.
Also, several individuals have called on the government to relocate victims to the vacant Saglemi houses.
Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, Freda Prempeh, has expressed her discontent over the blame games currently happening as far as the repurcussions of the Akosombo Dam spillage is concerned.
The Minister said, Volta River Authority (VRA), the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), and the Water Resources Commission (WRC) right from the beginning of the year, warned the affected residents of the impending spillage, and the need for their evacuation and relocation, however, “they refused to leave”.
She said “A stitch in time saves nine, we cannot sit back and allow situations like that …now people are blaming government, people are blaming VRA, people are blaming NADMO but these three institutions did a lot of education right from January till September,” she added.
“The Akosombo spillage even though VRA, NADMO, the Water Resources Commission came together to educate the people in the community, did simulation exercises with them even at Mepe, yet they refused to leave, they didn’t want to be evacuated”.
On her path, the “millions of money” the government is currently spending to resolve the current menace could have been avoided if the victims had headed to the warnings of the VRA, NADMO among others.
“They stayed on till the end when we started spilling, unfortunately, look at what is happening and government has to spend millions of money on relief items, education; the whole area, the water is contaminated,” she said at an event in Accra on October 23.
Amid all of this, she assured that the government however in collaboration with relevant agencies, is presently allocating funds to assist individuals who had chosen not to evacuate, despite warnings from the aforementioned agencies’ education, sensitizations and numerous warnings.
In mid-September, the Volta River Authority (VRA) initiated the discharge of excess water from the Akosombo and Kpong Dams to prevent the hydroelectric facility from potential collapse.
This water release resulted in a substantial deluge that swiftly inundated communities surrounding the dam, spanning several kilometers. It impacted eight districts across three constituencies: North, Central, and South Tongu.
To address the crisis, the government has established an inter-ministerial committee, led by the Chief of Staff, to oversee an emergency response.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo personally visited Mepe last week to gain a firsthand understanding of the situation.
The Volta River Authority (VRA) has refuted any responsibility for the ongoing flooding caused by the Akosombo Dam, which has affected several districts in the Volta and other regions.
The Authority maintains that it acted correctly to prevent unforeseen consequences.
Addressing the press on Monday, October 23, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of VRA, Ing. Kenneth Arthur, stated that if the spillage had not been executed, it would have jeopardized the integrity of the Akosombo Dam.
In his assessment, the country might have faced a dam breach, resulting in far more severe consequences.
“This event was quite unavoidable and you will bear with me that the prediction of weather is not an exact size. You could have an idea of what will happen, but in the midst of the event, that is when it will unfold to reality.”
“VRA has a mandate to keep the water level up to safe levels beyond which we stand the risk of a dam break which is an unimaginable event. In that worst case, if VRA allows it to happen it means that the impact will be far greater than what we have seen. So I will say that VRA acted in the right sense, we took all the necessary steps to make sure that the dam was not compromised.”
This is in response to the Volta River Authority’s (VRA) decision to open the spillways of the Akosombo and Kpong dams.
Mepe is one of the towns severely affected by flooding in the Volta Region, which is among the eight districts hardest hit by this man-made disaster along the Lower Volta Basin.
Several facilities have been converted into emergency shelters to house the families displaced downstream by this calamity.
As residents tally their losses in makeshift shelters, schools in the area have also been closed.
However, the VRA asserts that its actions were taken in the “right sense” to avert any unfortunate incidents.
This ongoing spillage has impacted numerous communities across eight districts, leading to the submersion of numerous homes and business establishments, and consequently, the displacement of a significant number of residents.
During a visit to some affected communities in the lower Volta Region, the Agbogbomefia said “We are all one people, we are all Ghanaians, and we are all from Volta Region, our lives are inextricably linked, so whatever impacts our people here, positively or negatively, has implications for all of us as well.”
“Indeed, meeting the people and talking to the chief, it’s really a bad thing they are living through. To have woken up one day and lost your property, or house, it’s very difficult in our country. It’s hard to imagine their plight, I have tried so many times to imagine that in my shoes.”
“This could have been avoided. Standing right at GRIDCO sub-station almost fully submerged, we have seen the situation in people’s homes, it’s really mind-boggling. They will live with the pain for some time. It’s not that it will have a clear path and go down the slope, this will be stagnant water for a very long time.
“People cannot go about their jobs as they used to do, schooling, and working, are all disrupted. People are suffering from the kind of things they eat. Truly, my heart, our hearts go out to them, we want to be able to stand by them, it’s a difficult moment and that is why we are here. We indeed share in their pains,” he emphasised.
Togbe Afede XIV further presented GH¢100,000 as a form of relief for victims severely impacted by the spillage.
He urged all Ghanaians to support the government in bringing the situation under control.
“It behoves all of us as Ghanaians to share in their pains and see what we can do as individuals to alleviate their sufferings. We are happy the MP and the chiefs are doing their best. And we all should take it very seriously.
“We have come to lend our widow’s mite to them, in an attempt to alleviate their problems to minimize their sufferings. We will give cash donations to support the fund, as the first attempt by us, and we have contributed GH¢100,000, towards that,” he reiterated.
He recommended that the Volta River Authority (VRA) implement measurements for both the inflow of water into the dam and the outflow of water into the spillways.
Starting from October 9, 2023, extensive areas of land and downstream communities near the Akosombo and Kpong dams experienced flooding. This occurred during the second-phase release of water from these two dams, which collectively contribute around one-third of Ghana’s electricity supply.
The controlled spillage was initiated by the Volta River Authority (VRA) at the Akosombo and Kpong dams, both located in the Eastern Region, beginning on September 15, 2023, due to an abundance of water in both reservoirs attributed to substantial rainfall.
The consequences of this spillage have been felt by almost all communities along the lower Volta Basin, leading to widespread power outages in the affected areas.
Benedicta Atigodo, a 35-year-old single mother of three, has been forced out of her home due to flooding in Mepe, a town located in the North Tongu District of the Volta Region.
She is apprehensive that when the floodwaters eventually subside, she may find herself without a place to live.
Benedicta, a skilled hairdresser, suffered not only the loss of her personal possessions but also her hairdressing salon, which is the main source of income for her family.
Her present situation isparticularly difficult, and managing her family’s needs without a steady income is a significant challenge while living in the camp where she has taken refuge.
As reported on The Forum, a weekend news analysis show on Asaase 99.5 Accra, the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) disclosed that a minimum of 31,000 individuals across nine districts have been displaced due to the release of excess water from the Akosombo and Kpong dams.
The ramifications of this overflow have been significant, with widespread destruction of crops, the closure of schools, and a noticeable economic standstill, particularly in Mepe, which serves as the epicenter in the Volta Region. This situation has also affected parts of the Eastern and Greater Accra regions.
“We have moved most of the affected people to a safe haven. About 31,000 people have been displaced,” NADMO deputy director general Seji Saji told Wilberforce Asare on Saturday (21 October).
During the same program, George Ayisi, the spokesperson for NADMO, reported that relief operations were progressing as planned, and he appealed to compassionate Ghanaians to contribute to these efforts. He mentioned that they have already established 20 safe shelters to accommodate some of the displaced individuals, emphasizing that they are working diligently to ensure that the contaminated water in the affected area is not used.
The Volta River Authority (VRA), which operates the dam, has taken several measures to assist the affected population.
They have provided mobile toilets and are collaborating with the Ghana Health Service to set up mobile clinics to care for the displaced individuals.
These efforts include sending 14 mobile toilets to Mepe and 10 to Adidome in North Tongu, along with the restoration of the water supply system to the Aveyime community.
The additional mobile toilets are intended to alleviate the pressure on the existing toilet facilities in the safe shelters. VRA has equipped these toilets with biodegrading units to help control cross-contamination. They have also pledged to provide more toilet facilities to other affected communities in the lower Volta Basin.
Collaborating with NADMO, VRA has already distributed relief items to flood victims, including canned food, rice, sugar, toiletries, boats, and hot meals.
Furthermore, the Minority in Parliament is urging the government to promptly address the needs of flood disaster victims by relocating them to the Saglemi housing project.
“We have Saglemi sitting idle, the government must ensure that they house the people of these 11 affected communities for this constituency properly. We are suggesting that as a matter of urgency, they can relocate them temporarily to the Saglemi Housing project,” the Minority Leader Cassiel Ato Forson said during a tour of the flooded communities on Friday (20 October). President Nana Akufo-Addo has set up a committee to coordinate ongoing rescue efforts.
Ghana’s meteorological service has forecast more rains this year as the West African country experiences a marked increase in the frequency and unpredictability of weather events, amid warnings linked to climate change.
The National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT) has urged the Ministry of Education to develop and put into action strategies to mitigate the consequences of the flood disaster in the Lower Volta Basin on the education and welfare of school children.
In a press statement, NAGRAT emphasized that the flooding caused by the Akosombo Dam’s release of water has disrupted the lives and educational pursuits of numerous children.
Therefore, it is essential to establish a stable and safe environment for both students and their families.
“We call upon the Ministry of Education and other relevant bodies to put in place measures to mitigate the impact of this disaster on the education of affected children. NAGRAT and its members are ever ready to offer the needed support.
“NAGRAT emphasizes the need for a concerted effort from all stakeholders to respond to this disaster with the needed expertise, compassion, and urgency. Our thoughts are with the affected communities and we stand in solidarity with them during this challenging period,” parts of the statement read.
NAGRAT has appealed to the government and relevant authorities to make the well-being of those affected a top priority and to proactively implement measures to prevent such incidents from recurring.
“We will continue to monitor the situation closely and offer our assistance in any way possible to ensure a swift and effective response to this crisis,” the Association added.
The Volta River Authority initiated the spillage of excess water on September 15, mainly due to the rising water levels in the Akosombo and Kpong hydro dams. In the weeks following the commencement of the spillage, numerous residents living along the Lower Volta Basin have experienced the loss of their homes and farmlands due to flooding caused by this release of water. Presently, nine districts are grappling with the impact of this overwhelming situation, resulting in a severe humanitarian crisis.
This heartbreaking situation particularly affects the South, Central, and North Tongu districts within the Volta Region, where the devastation is extensive. Vibrant communities like Battor, Tefle, Mepe, Sogakope, Adidome, and Anlo now find themselves submerged, with their very existence nearly consumed by the relentless waters.
Numerous residents have taken the initiative to evacuate themselves from the affected areas, and the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) and other relevant agencies have actively participated in rescue operations. Furthermore, various institutions and individuals have generously provided relief supplies to the affected residents.
Meanwhile, NAGRAT has expressed its appreciation to the government for establishing an Inter-Ministerial Committee. This committee is tasked with investigating the underlying causes of this disaster and formulating preventative measures to minimize the potential for similar incidents in the future.
“Furthermore, NAGRAT encourages the government and all stakeholders to engage in transparent communication with the affected communities and to provide them with timely and accurate information regarding the ongoing response and recovery efforts. In times of crisis, clear and open lines of communication are vital to fostering trust and cooperation among all parties involved.”
National Democratic Congress (NDC) have apologised on behalf of President Akufo Addo for the “unfortunate” comments he made during his visit to the victims of the Akosombo Dam spillage.
“Let me also say that on behalf of the people of Ghana and the NDC, the minority in parliament wants to apologise to the people of the Volta region for the statement made by the president of the Republic of Ghana,” he apologised.
This apology follows Akufo-Addo’s statements, which implied that his presence at Mepe, one of the many affected areas in the Volta Region, was a result of the fact that he is president of Ghana, and as is expected of him, he is supposed to come through when his citizens are in distress.
“I came here because Ghanaians are having difficulties and suffering. And it is my responsibility to try and help.
“Because if it is the question of counting who votes for me and who doesn’t vote for me, I shouldn’t be here because you don’t vote for me. But that is not my concern. And in any event, one day you would vote for me and my party,” were the words of the president.
As many, including Members of Parliament (MPs) and others alike, are offering humanitarian aid and support to the victims, the Minority in Parliament on October 20, 2023, has done the same.
Minority leader Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, during the donation to the victims, expressed his disappointment over the president’s remarks upon his visit while the victims were in “pain”.
“Let me say that we are here as the NDC and on the authority of our leader, the former President John Mahama, to share in your pain and to make some few donations.
“On behalf of the NDC, we say we are truly sorry for what has happened to you. In your language, you’d say “babanami”.
“We consider the statement very unfortunate and this statement should not come from the father of the land. In times like this, it surprises us and we are really disappointed in the statement coming from his excellency, the president,” he fumed.
Akosombo Dam is a hydroelectric power plant that generates electricity from the Volta River. The dam has a reservoir that can store water up to a maximum level of 276 feet.
However, due to heavy rainfall in the upstream areas, the water level in the reservoir has been rising steadily, threatening to overflow the dam.
To prevent this, theVolta River Authority (VRA), which operates the dam, has been spilling excess water from the dam into the downstream areas.
Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has cut sod for the construction of a First Sky Group housing project to relocate 12,000 individuals in the constituency who have been displaced owing to flooding by the spillage of the Akosombo dam.
First Sky’s subsidiary known as Construction Ambassadors is executing the project, which they promise to complete in record time. As part of his contribution, Mr Ablakwa noted that “we are offering free land at all agreed three locations.”
In a post on X, he added that “we stand ready to provide communal labour support.”
In Mr Ablakwa’s view, the relocation will begin to restore the dignity of his beloved constituents, ensure they live in much healthier conditions, and free the 21 schools being used as havens to help children return to school.
:North Tongu shall never forget the generosity and humanity of the First Sky Group. May God bless you all bountifully. Together, we shall survive this man-made disaster,” he added.
The calculated spillage of water from the Akosombo and Kpong Dams began on 15th September 2023, in response to a consistent increase in the inflow pattern and water level of the Akosombo reservoir.
The severe flooding, caused by the spillage from the dams, has forced numerous individuals in these areas to evacuate.
Meanwhile, the Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has discovered that a significant number of people in the emergency shelters are exhibiting symptoms of diarrhoea and bilharzia.
Member of Parliament representing Builsa South, Dr Clement Apaak, has strongly criticized those who have defendedPresident Akufo-Addo’s remarks during his visit to the victims of the dam spillage.
The lawmaker found it difficult to comprehend why certain individuals would support the president’s controversial comments.
On October 16, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo visited the Volta Region to assess the consequences of the Akosombo dam spillage and the condition of the affected individuals.
His expressions of sympathy for the victims, irrespective of their political affiliations, sparked a heated debate.
“When these things happen and the government acts, politics does not come into the matter at all. When I took the Oath of Office as president, I took the oath as president for every single individual in Ghana, all people in Ghana, all districts and whether they voted for me or not.
“Once I have taken the oath, I am the president of all the people, so Togbe, I want the people here, beginning with you and the elders, to understand that when something like this happens and the government acts, the government is acting for Ghanaians, all Ghanaians.
“I came here because Ghanaians are having difficulties and are suffering, and it is my responsibility to try and help. Because if it is a question of counting who votes for me and who doesn’t vote for me, then I shouldn’t be here because you don’t vote for me.
But that is not my concern. And, in any event, one day you will vote for me and my party,” he said to some of the victims at Mepe in the region.
While the president faced strong criticism, some individuals chose to downplay his comments as mere jokes.
However,Dr. Clement Apaak expressed bewilderment at those who supported the president, asserting that the remarks were in poor taste.
He pointed out that the president’s comments were not delivered in the context of a comedy show.
In a tweet, the MP said, “A joke! Those seeking to excuse the grossly insensitive comments by NADAA when he finally visited victims of the floods must bow their heads in shame. He was joking? Was he attending a comedy show or a festival? A leader jokes when thousands of citizens are distraught.”
Ghanaian actor, entrepreneur, and politician, John Dumelo, has provided essential relief items to the victims of the Akosombo Dam spillage. These relief items, which include clothing, water, eggs, bread, and rice, were delivered to residents of farming settlements in the Volta Region who had to evacuate their homes due to the flooding. Additionally, John Dumelo offered shelter to these victims at his farm house, extending a helping hand to many he has collaborated with over the years.
“Yesterday I presented some relief items (water, fresh eggs, bread, slightly used clothing, Ghana rice) to some farming settlements (Torgome, Klamadaboe, Kesegakope) close to my farm along the Volta Lake. I have worked with some of them over the last 7 years. I have therefore opened up my farm house to them as extra shelter. God bless us all,” Dumelo stated in a social media post on October 18.
The flooding and humanitarian crisis resulting from the spillage of the Akosombo and Kpong hydro dams have severely affected nine districts in the Volta Region. Communities such as Battor, Tefle, Mepe, Sogakope, Adidome, and Anlo have experienced extensive property damage and displacement of residents due to the rising water levels. Self-evacuation efforts by affected individuals and interventions from agencies like the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) have been ongoing. The situation has prompted various institutions and individuals to offer relief items to assist those impacted.
In response to the crisis, Vice President Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia has emphasized the importance of reevaluating and possibly redesigning the Akosombo Dam to enhance its ability to manage spillage effectively and reduce the negative impact on communities and livelihoods. This proactive measure is seen as essential in light of the challenges posed by climate change.
Yesterday I presented some relief items( water, fresh eggs, bread, slightly used clothing, Ghana rice) to some farming settlements(Torgome, Klamadaboe, Kesegakope) close to my farm along the Volta lake. I have worked with some of them over the last 7 years. I have therefore… pic.twitter.com/MfgzEvZ2Zu
The Volta River Authority (VRA) has provided an update, confirming that the water level at the Akosombo Dam has remained stable over the last 24 hours, despite previous concerns about rising water levels.
The Deputy Chief Executive of the VRA, Edward Obeng Kenzo, shared this information while speaking to the media on Thursday, October 19, 2023.
“We are currently below the 277.50 feet level. Today, there has been no rise, meaning that the inflow and the amount we are spilling are in equilibrium. As of this morning, the water level is approximately 277.36,” he stated.
Earlier this week, Mr. Kenzo had expressed concerns about the continuous increase in the dam’s water level.
He explained that they had been forced to release water from the dam to prevent it from overtopping its operational level of 277.5 feet, as saving water beyond this threshold was not an option.
He emphasized that while there were no immediate plans for further water spillage, any additional heavy rains into the dam could necessitate such action. Currently, the water level stands at approximately 277.26 feet behind the dam.
The dam’s operational level is 276, with the maximum allowable operational level being 277.5 feet.
Mr. Kenzo stressed the critical need to prevent the dam from exceeding its operational capacity, as doing so could result in the dam’s failure and catastrophic consequences, including the loss of lives and property along the banks of the Volta River.
The VRA initiated controlled water spillage from the Akosombo and Kpong Dams on September 15, 2023, due to a consistent rise in the inflow pattern and water level of the Akosombo reservoir.
This has resulted in the inundation of numerous homes in regions including South Tongu, North Tongu, Central Tongu, Asuogyaman, and other affected areas.
The Akosombo Dam, also known as the Volta Dam, is a hydroelectricdam on the VoltaRiver in southeastern Ghana in the Akosombo gorge and part of the Volta RiverAuthority. The construction of the dam flooded part of the Volta River Basin and led to the subsequent creation of Lake Volta.
Lake Volta is the largest man-made lake in the world by surface area. It covers 8,502 square kilometres (3,283 sq mi), which is 3.6% of Ghana’s land area. With a volume of 148 cubic kilometers, Lake Volta is the world’s third largest man-made lake by volume; the largest being Lake Kariba which contains 185 cubic kilometers of water.
The dam was conceived in 1915 by geologist Albert Kitson, but no plans were drawn until the 1940s. The development of the Volta River Basin was proposed in 1949, but because funds were insufficient, the American company Volta Aluminum Company (Valco) lent money to Ghana so that the dam could be constructed. President Kwame Nkrumah adopted the Volta River hydropower project.
In May 1960, the Ghana government called for tenders for construction of the hydroelectric dam. In 1961, an Italian consortium, Impregilo which had just completed the Kariba Dam, won the contract.
In 1961, the Volta River Authority (VRA) was established by Ghana’s Parliament through the passage of the Volta River Development Act.
The VRA’s fundamental operations were structured by six Board members and Nkrumah as chairman. The VRA’s primary task is to manage the development of the Volta River Basin, which included the construction and supervision of the dam, the power station and the power transmission network.
The VRA is responsible for the reservoir impounded by the dam, fishing within the lake, lake transportation and communication, and the welfare of those surrounding the lake.
T-Tekpor Energy Ltd, a prominent Ghanaian Oil Marketing Company, has shown remarkable support and compassion by generously donating 120,000 Ghana Cedis.
This substantial contribution represents a significant milestone in the ongoing campaign organized by Citi FM and Citi TV to raise funds and essential relief items for those severely affected by the recent flood in Akosombo Dam Village.
T-Tekpor Energy: A Strong Supporter
T-Tekpor Energy Ltd, well-known for its unwavering commitment to delivering high-value, dedicated, and professional services to the Oil & Gas and Marine Industries, has emerged as a driving force behind the relief efforts for the flood victims in Akosombo Dam Village.
The company’s journey in the energy sector began with upstream Marine Services and has expanded to encompass downstream Marine Services, serving the specific needs of the Oil and Gas sector. With a fleet of tanker vessels, they provide a wide range of products and services to a diverse clientele worldwide, spanning both private and public sectors.
T-Tekpor Energy’s dedication to community welfare is exemplified through its multifaceted involvement in the energy industry.
Their licensing to procure, store, distribute, and sell petroleum products in Ghana, along with their ultra-modern oil storage facility, underscores their commitment to delivering top-tier services to their valued clients.
Exemplary Corporate Responsibility
T-Tekpor Energy Ltd’s substantial donation exemplifies the pinnacle of corporate responsibility and its profound commitment to the communities it serves. In the wake of the recent calamity caused by the Akosombo Dam spillage, T-Tekpor Energy has emerged as a pillar of support and a beacon of hope for the distressed residents of Akosombo Dam Village.
The 120,000 Ghana Cedis donation is poised to provide urgently needed relief to those who have been displaced and adversely affected by the flooding.
Chief Executive Officer of Citi FM and Citi TV, Samuel Attah-Mensah, while receiving the donation on the Citi Breakfast Show, assured listeners that the funds will be used judiciously to ensure that T-Tekpor Energy Ltd takes pride in their association with the Citi FM and Citi TV relief campaign.
Assisting Akosombo Dam Spillage victims
The ongoing campaign, led by Citi FM and Citi TV, using the hashtag #Relief4LowerVolta on social media, aims to mobilize significant support from organizations, businesses, individuals, and the international community to extend aid to the flood victims in the Lower Volta region. T-Tekpor Energy’s substantial contribution propels this noble cause to even greater heights.
Capt. Theodore Tekpor, Founder and Chief Executive of the company, was deeply moved by distressing accounts, images, and videos shared by various photojournalists and reporters, motivating his decision to make this significant contribution.
As Charles Wattenburg, the Operations Manager of T-Tekpor Energy Ltd, explained during the donation, the company’s contribution aligns with their core principles of responsible operations, execution with excellence, innovative technology application, and seizing new opportunities for profitable growth.
Inspiring unity in the face of adversity
T-Tekpor Energy Ltd’s resolute commitment to supporting the victims of the Akosombo Dam Village flood serves as a compelling source of inspiration for all. It underscores the indomitable spirit of Ghana, highlighting the potent impact of unity during times of adversity.
As the relief initiatives continue, additional support from individuals and organizations, including T-Tekpor Energy Ltd, strengthens the determination to make a profound difference in the lives of those affected.
With further spillage expected from the Akosombo Dam in the coming days, the collective efforts of organizations, businesses, and individuals are pivotal in providing assistance to the downstream communities that may face additional challenges.
T-Tekpor Energy Ltd’s contribution sets a shining example of corporate responsibility, emphasizing that, together, we have the capacity to make a monumental impact in times of crisis.
The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has made a concerning revelation about the conditions in emergency shelters established for individuals affected by the spillage of the Akosombo and Kpong Dams.
The Acting General Secretary of the GMA, Dr. Richard Selormey, shared this information while speaking to the media.
According to Dr. Selormey, the GMA dispatched a team to assist with rescue efforts in the affected areas and discovered that a significant number of people in the emergency shelters were exhibiting symptoms of diarrhea and bilharzia.
“We have noted that the most common diseases contracted by victims are malaria, skin diseases, and respiratory conditions because they are in close contact. We have also noticed that there are a few people beginning to show signs of diarrhea diseases and about two people are also showing signs of bilharzia,” he added.
Dr. Selormey also issued a warning about the potential for waterborne disease outbreaks and urged the affected individuals to adhere to safety protocols while awaiting relief supplies.
Meanwhile, in North and South Tongu in the Volta region, thousands of displaced persons have been forced to use contaminated water for some of their daily chores due to the circumstances arising from the dam spillage.
The calculated spillage of water from the Akosombo and Kpong Dams began on 15th September 2023, in response to a consistent increase in the inflow pattern and water level of the Akosombo reservoir.
The severe flooding, caused by the spillage from the dams, has forced numerous individuals in these areas to evacuate.
During his visit to the affected areas on Monday, 16th, October, President Akufo-Addo assured that the inter-ministerial committee established to address flood-related issues will not only determine immediate relief efforts for the victims, but also focus on preventing the occurrence of such disasters in the future.
In the meantime, the Volta River Authority (VRA) has warned that Tema and its surrounding areas may face significant risk should the water level of the Akosombo Dam exceed its operational capacity.
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has emphasized the imperative need for the country to devise lasting solutions to address the aftermath of the Akosombo dam spillage.
The Volta River Authority (VRA) initiated the controlled release of water from the Akosombo and Kpong Dams on September 15, 2023, in response to a consistent increase in the inflow pattern and water levels of the Akosombo reservoir.
As a result of the spillage, numerous residents in areas such as South Tongu, North Tongu, Central Tongu, Asuogyaman, and various other regions have seen their homes submerged.
Dr. Bawumia, who conducted a visit to the affected communities in the North, Central, and South Tongu districts on Wednesday, emphasized that a permanent solution is imperative to prevent the recurrence of such incidents.
“But we need to look for long-term solutions to this flooding,” he said. “Because it will happen this year, we can deal with it now. But what of next year? Because climate change appears to be taking hold.
“A few years ago, we were all worried about the water levels of the Volta Dam because it was too low. Now, we are all worried that it is too high. We need to look for engineering solutions to the spillage of water out of the Volta dam.”
Following his tour of the flood-affected regions, Dr. Bawumia reassured the public that the government is fully committed to taking all necessary measures to support the affected areas and individuals.
He affirmed that the government would persist in delivering relief aid and working towards the restoration of the livelihoods of those impacted by the disaster.
The Volta River Authority (VRA) has taken a significant step to alleviate the challenges faced by individuals affected by the spillage from the Akosombo Dam.
The assistance includes various relief items such as rice, cartons of mackerel, cooking oil, tomato paste, soft drinks, biscuits, powdered milk, mosquito coils, palm oil, toilet rolls, beans, gari, groundnut, and sachet water.
In addition to relief items, the organizations has supplied medical items and personnel to address emerging health issues and provide medical treatment.
To facilitate the transportation of people and goods, buses and pickups have been made available, and tankers have been deployed to ensure a consistent supply of water to those affected by the spillage. This coordinated effort is aimed at providing essential relief and support to the affected communities.
A statement by VRA noted that the damaged water supply system in the North Tongu district has been successfully restored.
The areas affected by the spillage from the Akosombo Dam include North Tongu, Central Tongu, South Tongu, Asuogyaman, Shail Osudoku, Anlo, Keta Municipal, Keta South Municipal, and Ada East. This significant event has impacted the lives of more than 26,000 individuals.
The government has pledged to provide additional support to the victims to help them recover from the effects of the spillage and regain their stability.
Member of Parliament for North Tongu Constituency, Okudzeto Ablakwa, launches a mobile relief caravan and calls for additional support in response to the Akosombo Dam spillage#UTVNewspic.twitter.com/eWD0qzm4vM
The Chief Executive Officer of the InterCity State Transport Corporation, Nana Akomea, has called on all Ghanaians to join forces in a national endeavor to provide relief support to the victims affected by the Akosombo dam spillage.
Addressing the media, Nana Akomea proposed that the government should launch a nationwide appeal, urging every Ghanaian to contribute to assisting the victims.
“We must appeal for international assistance because it is a national emergency, it has to be a national effort; everybody contributes something small. It is not their fault that this disaster has happened to them. Unfortunately, the country hasn’t got all the resources…So, it’s a huge national effort.
“We should appeal for international assistance.We should launch a national appeal. Many many Ghanaians would contribute to it” to help remedy the situation, ,” he appealed.
Nana Akomea stressed that while President Akufo- Addo has pledged the government’s support to the victims, addressing this challenge requires a collective effort that goes beyond government resources.
“We should launch a national appeal. Many many Ghanaians would contribute to it” to help remedy the situation, he stressed.
He appealed to all Ghanaians to support the government, underscoring that the victims are fellow citizens, and such disasters could potentially affect anyone in the future.
He highlighted the necessity of launching a national appeal, expressing confidence that numerous Ghanaians would contribute to alleviating the situation.
“There are so many settlements downstream that the spillage hasn’t affected yet but immediately, we have to evacuate all of them because the water is still flowing. We have to resettle them temporarily and maybe in another two/three weeks when the water dries up, the reconstruction, the people who have lost their properties; they need support to replace [those] their household gadgets, carpets, furniture, electronic, disinfectants…So, it’s a huge effort that has to be done,” he appealed.
The Akosombo dam spillage has led to the displacement of at least 26,000 people living along the lower Volta Basin, causing the submersion of their homes and valuable assets.
Meanwhile, the Volta River Authority (VRA) has warned that Tema and its surrounding areas within the Greater Accra Region, may face significant risk should the water level of the Akosombo Dam exceed its operational capacity.
Speaking to the media, Deputy Chief Executive of the VRA, Edward Obeng Kenzo, disclosed that the current water level of the dam stands at 277.26 feet, while its maximum operational level is 277.5 feet.
He added that going beyond this operational level could jeopardize the dam’s integrity, potentially leading to a massive release of water that could engulf areas along the Volta River all the way to Tema.
To prevent any unforeseen disaster, the VRA has indicated that it will be necessary to continue releasing water from the dam if the water level continues to rise.
“We don’t want to spill any additional volume of water. We are tracking and with the data, we believe that we may not spill any volume of water. But if there should be any unexpected heavy rains into the dam, we’ll be compelled to spill. Where we are now, we are around 277.26 feet of water behind the dam. The dam’s operational level is 276, the maximum allowable operational level of the dam is 277.5 feet.”
“So we are left with only about 0.24 feet to get to that maximum operational level of the dam. So any level beyond this, we are putting the dam’s integrity at risk. If the dam should break, the volume of water that will come out of the dam – all those along the banks of the river, all the way to somewhere around Tema will be wiped into the sea. No human being will be saved, no structure will be saved, nothing will be saved,” Mr Kenzo said.
Ketu South MP, Abla Dzifa Gomashie has accused President Akufo-Addo, of insulting and showing disrespect to the chiefs and people of the Volta Region during his visit to t the area.
She pointed out that the President’s remarks during his tour of flood-affected areas on October 16, 2023, were offensive.
During his visit, President Akufo-Addo expressed his intent to help the situation caused by the planned spillage of excess water from the Akosombo and Kpong Dams, and he emphasized that his assistance was irrespective of the people’s political affiliations.
Abla Dzifa Gomashie voiced her disappointment with the President’s comments, arguing that he should have acknowledged the region’s prior appeals for assistance, especially in dealing with tidal waves that affected the coastal areas of the Volta Region.
“His Excellency, the president, should be ashamed of himself because if you go into your archives, you’ll see that from 2021, the three MPs along the coast of the Volta Region — my good self, the MP for Keta, Hon Kwame Dzudzoli Gakpey and the MP for Anlo, Hon Richard Kwami Sefe, called on the president many times to come to the aid of our people who were inundated with the tidal waves that had hit our communities.”
“In my particular case, in one year, the tidal waves hit me three times, on none of those occasions did the president speak about it, tweet about it, or think about it.”
She cited multiple instances in which she and other MPs had called on the President to provide aid for the affected communities, but these appeals seemed to go unnoticed.
“His ministers came here, made promises, and left and till date, there’s no record anywhere, where you’ll find if either the president or his vice president or his ministers came back on that issue of what was happening to us”, she bemoaned.
She said: “We’re still in that same situation and he still has not spoken about it.”
She expressed her dissatisfaction with the President’s recent visit, particularly his failure to apologize for neglect and the inadequate handling of the disaster in the Volta Region.
“After weeks of this disaster and planned spillage of excess water from the dam by the VRA, weeks after, the president now gathers courage and comes to us and the first thing he says to us, is not to apologise for the neglect, it’s not to apologise for the ineffective way in which he has handled this disaster in the Volta Region, it was not to apologise to the chiefs and people and the ones who voted for him to get the 50 percent plus one; he did not apologise to us. He comes and rubs it in our faces that if it was about voting, then he wouldn’t have been here, but you came with your empty hands and you want to come and insult us.”
“I am disgusted, I’m horrified that His Excellency can descend that low,” she condemned.
She accused the President of coming to the region with “empty hands” and delivering an insulting message instead of demonstrating empathy or addressing the region’s challenges.
In summary, Abla Dzifa Gomashie criticized President Akufo-Addo for his visit to the flood-affected areas in the Volta Region, particularly his comments, which she regarded as disrespectful and insulting to the people of the region.
The Volta River Authority (VRA) has disclosed that the ongoing rains could necessitate further spillage from the Akosombo and Kpong dams.
Speaking to the media, the Deputy Chief Executive of the VRA, Edward Obeng Kenzo, indicated that the current water level at the dam stands at 277.26 feet, nearing its maximum operational level of 277.5 feet.
According to him, going beyond this threshold could pose a severe risk to the dam’s structural integrity and potentially lead to a substantial release of water, putting areas along the Volta River, extending down to Tema, in jeopardy.
“We don’t want to spill any additional volume of water. We are tracking and with the data, we believe that we may not spill any volume of water. But if there should be any unexpected heavy rains into the dam, we’ll be compelled to spill. Where we are now, we are around 277.26 feet of water behind the dam. The dam’s operational level is 276, the maximum allowable operational level of the dam is 277.5 feet.”
He added that to avert a potential catastrophe, the VRA may find it necessary to continue discharging water should water levels continue to rise.
“So we are left with only about 0.24 feet to get to that maximum operational level of the dam. So any level beyond this, we are putting the dam’s integrity at risk. If the dam should break, the volume of water that will come out of the dam – all those along the banks of the river, all the way to somewhere around Tema will be wiped into the sea. No human being will be saved, no structure will be saved, nothing will be saved,” Mr. Kenzo cautioned.
The decision to release water from the Akosombo and Kpong Dams was initiated on September 15, 2023, due to a sustained increase in the inflow pattern and water level of the Akosombo reservoir.
Consequently, this led to widespread flooding in various regions, including South Tongu, North Tongu, Central Tongu, Asuogyaman, among others.
In response to these challenges, President Akufo-Addo has committed government resources to assist flood victims in the Eastern, Greater Accra, and Volta regions.
During his visit to the affected areas, he assured that an inter-ministerial committee would address immediate relief and take proactive measures to prevent future disasters.
Additionally, President Akufo-Addo revealed the government’s intent to collaborate with district assemblies to provide support to those affected when the floodwaters recede.
“I am aware that you are a farming people and the people who are farming on the banks of the rivers and had their crops destroyed, one of the things the Agriculture Ministry, Finance Ministry and the Office of the President are going to do is to work together with the district assemblies to decide the exact support we have to give to you when the water has gone away.” “And this is why I am saying that the Committee is working in several phases, one being to provide immediate relief, and then to prevent such happening in the future and I want you to know the government is going to do everything in its powers to assist to ensure everything is all right.”
The MP has developed an effective distribution system to ensure that all 19 camps for displaced persons in his constituency regularly receive much-needed relief items without bottlenecks.
The MP’s office has secured a relief package comprising bags of rice, maize, sugar, cooking oil, canned fish, mosquito nets, detergents, tissues, mosquito repellents, sanitary towels, life jackets and tissues for onward distribution to all camps.
“The 10,000 displaced constituents remain dear to our hearts and shall not be abandoned. I shall be with you all the way — your welfare is my priority,” he said in a post.
The Volta River Authority (VRA) began releasing water from the Akosombo and Kpong Dams on September 15, 2023, in response to a consistent rise in the inflow pattern and water level of the Akosombo reservoir.
This action has resulted in extensive flooding in several regions, including South Tongu, North Tongu, Central Tongu, Asuogyaman, and more.
According to Mr Ablakwa, the Volta River Authority is yet to announce their non-negotiable plans for full compensation of all victims “of their unprecedented spillage from the Akosombo and Kpong dams.”
“This large-scale devastation of biblical proportion was totally avoidable if the VRA management had put in place the right safety precautions and adequate community engagement, particularly, as they were the only ones who knew the quantum of water to be discharged and the dire implications for life and property. That would have averted the unfolding catastrophe.
I sincerely hope we shall not be blamed when we begin series of legitimate actions to demand justice for VRA’s displaced victims and to end VRA’s continuous costly dereliction.”
The decision to release water from the Akosombo and Kpong Dams by the Volta River Authority (VRA) was initiated on September 15, 2023, due to a sustained increase in the inflow pattern and water level of the Akosombo reservoir.
Consequently, this has led to widespread flooding in various regions, including South Tongu, North Tongu, Central Tongu, Asuogyaman, among others.
The National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) has acknowledged that it should have implemented a mandatory evacuation plan to relocate residents from flood-prone areas prior to the Akosombo Dam spillage.
Speaking during an interview on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, Deputy Director General of NADMO, Seji Saji Amedonu, explained that although residents were initially advised to voluntarily evacuate before the spillage, stronger measures could have been taken when this voluntary evacuation was not successful.
He mentioned that NADMO could have resorted to compulsory evacuation, but this proved to be a challenging task.
“When it gets to a point that some people do not want to move for some reason, then, we do the compulsory evacuation. Yes, we did not do compulsory evacuation.
“That is a difficult thing to do. Imagine moving this number of people by force. How are you going to get that done?
“What it means is that we needed to involve all the state security agencies to get that done.”
The Volta River Authority (VRA) has attributed the spillage to a “consistent rise in the inflow pattern and water level of the Akosombo Dam.”
As a result, thousands of residents in nine districts across the Volta, Eastern, and Greater Accra regions have experienced losses of their homes and belongings due to the ongoing spillage of the Akosombo and Kpong Dams.
Meanwhile, the majority of residents who have reported property losses find themselves without a home and are appealing to the government for assistance.
“Over a thousand houses and properties have been submerged already and lives are being threatened so we are calling on government to come to our aid. This is the time the people of Mepe, especially those in the Volta River basin are waiting for them, they should come to our aid,” a resident pleaded.
The Volta River Authority’s (VRA) Health Service, under the leadership of its Medical Director, Dr. Omari-Yeboah, has taken measures to provide medical assistance and medications for the flood victims resulting from the Akosombo dam spillage.
When discussing the medical interventions that have been established to assist the affected communities, Dr. Omari-Yeboah emphasized their close collaboration with the Ghana Health Service (GHS).
Dr. Omari-Yeboah on the extreme right
They are in the process of deploying medical staff to the affected areas, including doctors, nurses, and other allied health professionals.
In addition to their efforts, the GHS has dispatched personnel from other regions of the country to bolster the work of the medical teams already on the ground.
“We are providing medical, sanitary, lab and pharmacy services at no cost to the citizens”.
Dr. Yeboah also stated that his organization is providing medicines to further bolster the relief effort in addition to the additional doctors and nurses deployed.
“As part of the combined efforts, we have also supplied medicines to the Ghana Health Services to help in the relief effort,” he said.
These medical relief provisions encompass a range of items, including anti-venom serums, pain relievers, antibiotics, hand sanitizers, mosquito repellents, gloves, cannulas, deworming medications, and anti-fungal topical creams.
Additionally, the VRA Health Service has distributed drugs designed to address specific illnesses like cholera, enteric fever, dysentery, worm infestations, skin infections, snakebites, malaria, and respiratory diseases.
Dr. Omari-Yeboah expressed his sympathy for the afflicted victims and provided assurance that the VRA is committed to providing assistance and support to them.
“We are in this together. It is our sworn duty to serve and we shall serve our community. We will leave no stone unturned in providing the medical support needed”.
Dr. Omari-Yeboah provided reassurance to the victims, emphasizing that the distribution of drugs and medical equipment is just the beginning of the VRA’s Evacuation Plan. He stated that all affected districts will continue to receive a steady supply of crucial medical supplies and medications.
Dr Omari-Yeboah said, “As an Obstetrician and Gynecologist by training, the women and children are especially of great concern to me, so anything I can do in my power to ensure their health and well-being will be done, as my Chief Executive said, no one will be left behind.”
Dr. Yeboah gave his assurance that the VRA Health Services team will remain committed to offering ongoing support to the community, extending well beyond the conclusion of the controlled spill of the Akosombo dam.
He reiterated that his team stands ready with staff, ambulances, and other medical resources at all times, ready to augment the efforts of the Ghana Health Service.
As part of its comprehensive support system for the affected communities, VRA continues to provide essential relief items, including substantial supplies of canned foods, foodstuffs, toiletries, potable drinking water, and fresh water tankers on a daily basis.
Safe havens have been established on elevated ground, and daily evacuation efforts are ongoing, with special attention being given to the well-being of women, children, the elderly, and the sick to minimize their exposure to diseases and hardships.
Deputy Director-General of the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), Seji Saji, has made a plea to the general public to offer assistance to the individuals impacted by the Akosombo Dam spillage.
He emphasized that while the government, through NADMO, has been diligently addressing the immediate needs of those displaced by the floods by providing food and shelter, they are currently facing resource constraints and would greatly benefit from any support available.
He pointed out that the crisis stemming from the flooding is an ongoing situation, leading to a continual increase in the population affected by the dam spillage. This, in turn, is placing additional strain on NADMO’s resources and capacity.
Speaking on JoyFM, Mr Seji Saji said, “It is an unfolding situation. When this thing started, we started with 2,000, then 3,000, now we’re at 26,000. We’re having items brought in every day. We are operating from the North Tongu district assembly; we’re using this place as our centre to try and address the challenges across, though we have our staff and team in each of the districts.
“So we have quite a lot of items here, water and all that. So I don’t think that we will ever have enough because the situation is unfolding. There are also individuals that I know that are already also helping people in the community.
“The very first day I arrived in Mepe, I met a gentleman with a pickup or so who had cooked food and was distributing. So it is a situation that calls for all hands on deck and the support of everyone. Government is doing its bit by providing a lot of items that we have here.”
He urged the public to contribute food items such as rice, maize, gari, canned fish, oil, and other essential staples. Additionally, non-food items like mattresses, used clothing, mosquito coils, nets, blankets, and similar supplies would be highly appreciated.
Meanwhile, the Akosombo and Kpong hydro dams’ controlled spillage is anticipated to persist for a minimum of one week to prevent any risk of dam collapse. This controlled release of water from the dams began around a month ago, as reported by the Volta River Authority.
The resultant flooding has presented a significant humanitarian challenge in communities downstream, affecting regions in the Volta, Eastern, and Greater Accra areas. To date, it has led to the displacement of at least 12,000 people.
President Nana Akufo-Addo’s visit to the communities devastated by the Akosombo Dam spillage, on Tuesday 16th October, 2023 sparked controversy due to remarks he made to the affected residents.
While touring the devastated areas in the Volta Region, particularly in Mepe, the President made remarks that many perceived as insensitive, highlighting the residents’ historical voting patterns against his party.
The Akosombo and Kpong dams’ spillage has caused severe flooding, forcing numerous communities in the northern, southern, and central Tongu districts to evacuate. The repercussions are dire, with significant disruptions at facilities like the Comboni Hospital. Amid this, President Akufo-Addo’s visit was to assure the victims of government support, yet his words stirred a different sentiment.
“When I took the oath of office as president of every single individual in Ghana, of all peoples in Ghana, all districts and whether they voted for me or not, once I have taken the vote, I am the president of the people. So Togbe, you and all your elders, I want the people here, you, beginning with you, and the elders to understand that when something like this happens and government acts, government is acting for Ghanaians, all Ghanaians. I came here because Ghanaians are suffering and it is my responsibility to try and help. Because if it is a question of counting who votes for me and who doesn’t vote for me, I shouldn’t be here, because you don’t vote for me. But that is not my concern and in any event, one day you will vote for me and my party,” the President stated.
The President then urged for the depoliticisation of such tragic events, emphasising his role as a leader for all Ghanaians, irrespective of political affiliations.
These remarks, especially the reference to the residents’ voting preferences, have drawn heavy criticism from the public. The flood victims, already grappling with their losses, found the mention of their past electoral choices to be out of place and untimely, considering their current plight.
In light of the crisis, the President had outlined several relief measures, including the formation of an inter-ministerial committee and the provision of relief items through NADMO. He emphasised his role as a leader bound to serve all constituents, irrespective of political affiliations, urging for depoliticisation of the tragedy.
He also extended his sympathies and assured the victims of the government’s commitment to addressing the calamity.
“My visit here is to come and sympathise and commiserate with you about the tragedy that has occurred,” he stated. He referenced a conversation with his Chief of Staff while in America, leading to the formation of an inter-ministerial committee to spearhead the government’s response to the crisis.
The President also announced the establishment of nine safe havens in Mepe for the displaced, confirming the continuous provision of relief items by the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO).
He also touched on the agricultural impact, assuring collaboration between the Ministry of Finance, Food and Agriculture, and his office to develop comprehensive solutions for the affected farmlands.
However, the public’s response to his visit has been overshadowed by his controversial statement, with many accusing him of tribalism and insensitivity. Social media platforms, particularly Twitter, saw an outpouring of criticism with users expressing disappointment and citing the President’s words as unfortunate during such a calamity.
His remarks, particularly the reference to the voting patterns of the residents, have been received with mixed reactions, with some viewing them as an unnecessary focus on politics in a time of disaster. Despite the assurance, the nuances of his statements raise questions about the broader political dynamics at play in times of crisis.
The Ghana Navy has disclosed that they have successfully rescued more than 8,000 individuals from regions affected by the devastating overflow of the Akosombo Dam.
This information was revealed by Commodore EA Kwafo, a representative from the Naval Training Command, during an update on the flood situation in Mepe, located in the Volta Region.
Commodore Kwafo also emphasized that the rescue teams operating in the impacted areas are actively overseeing vital infrastructure and promptly responding to distress calls, aiming to minimize the damage caused by the dam spillage. If the existing rescue efforts become overwhelmed, additional personnel and logistical support will be deployed to enhance their capacity.
“We are monitoring critical infrastructure as well as responding to distress calls from the district assemblies, VRA, and NADMO and we have been rescuing people on the water and we are monitoring the estuary because it becomes a deathtrap in times of flooding.
“We were keeping watch on critical infrastructure and as of yesterday evening, we had evacuated over 8,000 flood-stricken people to safe havens and we have brought over ten more boats downstream and experienced divers and lifesavers to assist in the rescue efforts.”
“Depending on how it goes, we may bring in more facilities and more personnel or if the situation improves, then, we may be keeping a watch anyway and we are ready to respond to any distress call and help save lives and properties to help mitigate the losses during this difficult times,” Commodore EA Kwafo he added.
"I came here because Ghanaians are having difficulties and it's my responsibility to try and help, because if it's a question of counting who votes for me and who… pic.twitter.com/XodIlcg8Th
A non-governmental organization, Child Rights International (CRI) has conducted an assessment revealing that over 10,896 children have been impacted by the flooding resulting from the Akosombo Dam spillage.
These children reside in more than 80 communities, spanning across seven districts.
The flooding, which has resulted from the release of excess water by the Volta River Authority (VRA) since September 15, 2023, has disrupted various aspects of the children’s lives, including education, health, mobility, shelter, and access to food in the affected communities.
CRI’s Executive Director, Bright Appiah, emphasized that the flooding has severely impacted essential services, particularly for children, who are among the most affected.
Educational facilities have been damaged, limiting access to quality education, while mobility has been significantly restricted. Families, including children, are struggling to find shelter, and accessing food has become a major concern for them.
CRI is fully committed to providing immediate support to these affected children and their families. This support will prioritize ensuring access to education, shelter, food, and necessary resources.
CRI’s staff is actively contributing an undisclosed amount to the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) to assist in supporting the welfare of affected children.
Given the urgency of the situation, CRI is calling upon all stakeholders, including corporate entities, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and individuals, to join forces with NADMO in providing relief and protection to the affected children.
This collaborative effort is aimed at averting any potential outbreak of diseases and other related challenges.
“Child Rights International (CRl) recognises the urgency of this situation and has been actively working to assess the needs of the affected children. Our assessments reveal that approximately ten thousand eight hundred and ninety-six (10,896) children have been affected so far across over eighty (80) communities, spanning seven (7) districts.
“CRl is committed to providing immediate support to these children and their families, with a focus on ensuring access to education, shelter, food, and necessary resources. The staff of Child Rights International (CRl) are giving immediate support of an undisclosed amount to the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) to support the welfare of the children affected.
“The situation at hand will require emergency support from stakeholders. Therefore CRl is calling on all stakeholders, including corporate bodies, non-government Organisations (NGOs ), and individuals, to support the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) in providing relief and protection for children affected in order to avert any possible outbreak of diseases and other related conditions.”
The Ghana Hotels Association has reported that the hospitality industry in the Volta and Eastern Regions has been severely impacted due to the ongoing spillage of the Akosombo and Kpong Dams.
The Volta River Authority (VRA) initiated the spillage of excess water from the Akosombo and Kpong hydro dams on September 15, 2023.
This spillage has necessitated the evacuation of numerous communities in the north, south, and Central Tongu districts of the Volta Region, leaving residents with no choice but to salvage what remains of their belongings.
While the current inflow into the reservoir stands at 400,000 cubic feet of water per second, the VRA has indicated that they are releasing approximately 183,000 cubic feet of water, with no definite end date for the spilling exercise.
In the meantime, thousands of individuals residing along the Lower Volta Basin have been forced to relocate, resulting in property losses estimated at millions of cedis.
Addressing the media, Dr. Edward Ackah-Nyamike Jnr., President of the association, mentioned that hotels and recreational facilities situated along the lake have experienced significant damage.
“The impact has been mainly on the operational areas, the outdoor sitting areas have generally been affected. It has also affected patronage of these hotels for obvious reasons. So it’s obvious these hotels at the river banks will have a lot of challenges from the spillage”, he stressed.
He informed the media that the association intends to instruct its members on leveraging insurance programs during its forthcoming National Executive Council Meeting scheduled for October 18, 2023.
“We as an industry must start looking at insuring our premises against some these disasters that will befall us. We will be attending our National Executive Council Meeting this Wednesday to come up with ways to support our members who unfortunately found themselves in this situation”.
Meanwhile the association has asked its members affected by the spillage to avail themselves to the authorities for the necessary assistance and support in order to bounce back.
The Member of Parliament for Keta, Kwame Dzudzorli Gakpey, has issued a legal threat against the Volta River Authority (VRA) due to their alleged failure to notify the affected residents about the Akosombo and Kpong Dam spillages.
In an interview on JoyNews’ The Probe on Sunday, he asserted that the local population was not adequately informed before the spillage occurred. Additionally, he refuted claims of having discussions with fellow Members of Parliament regarding the spillage.
“There was no warning or so from VRA even to spill the water. At the end of the day when they were in crisis, it was too late… I am encouraging our indigenes, especially the Volta region we need to sue the VRA,” he said.
Mr. Gakpey stated that the lawsuit would primarily focus on the harm inflicted on residents due to the absence of advance notice of the spillage and would also seek compensation for those affected.
He noted that the VRA informed them of the development “in the midst of the disaster.”
Thousands of residents in nine districts spanning the Volta, Eastern, and Greater Accra regions have suffered significant losses to their property and homes due to the continuous spillage of the Akosombo and Kpong Dams.
The Volta River Authority explained that it is conducting this spillage due to a “consistent rise in the inflow pattern and water level of the Akosombo Dam.”
Meanwhile, the Deputy Director of NADMO, Seji Saji Amedonu, has stated that they are actively coordinating relief efforts to provide assistance to the affected residents.
“There are things that we need to give to the people. So have provided some food items and non-food items and the non-food items include – blankets, mattresses, mosquito nets, coils, buckets, etc. And food items – gari, sausage, maize, oil among others. We are trying to reach almost every one that has been affected,” he said.
The One Volta Group (OVG) is urging the government to promptly resettle individuals affected by the floods resulting from the Akosombo Dam’s spillage. They are also advocating for compensation to be provided to the affected victims.
In a press statement dated October 15, 2023, OVG expressed several grievances about the disasters experienced in the region, highlighting that the affected individuals were not at fault.
As a result, the group has put forth a seven-point recommendation to the government to address these ongoing challenges.
“We suggest the Nana Akufo-Addo-led government do the needful and consider the following as soon as possible: Immediate resettlement of the people with the full cost borne by government, set up a high-level committee including the indigenes as to how we got here and those who are negligent face disciplinary actions, have a listing of all individuals affected by the disaster for compensation. This list and compensation should be audited and results be released,” the group added in its statement.
Read the full statement below:
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED BY ONE VOLTA GROUP (OVG) IN THE FACE OF INUNDATION OF SIGNIFICANT PORTIONS OF VOLTA REGION
15th October 2023
For immediate release
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In the past one and a half weeks we view with trepidation, utmost concern, hopelessness, and helplessness as we watch the complete devastation of the lives, the livelihoods, dangers to life and property to those living in the downstream areas of the Volta River dam at Akosombo. Initially we thought it was an aberration seeing sections of Agbozume, areas in Keta lagoon, Aflao and others flooded.
We thought it was the usual drainage issues in the affected communities until the flooding of the riverine areas which then informed us about actions taken by VRA because of the flood waters flowing from upstream threatening the collapse of the Akosombo Dam. Our hope of return to normalcy immediately evaporated giving way to despondency when we realized that we were not dealing with mere local rainfall but external massive flow of water.
Our disappointment cannot be measured when we view that since the spillage and consequent untold hardships and havoc visited on the people of the Volta Region ling downstream of the Akosombo dam the President of the Republic of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, had not made a trip to the affected areas neither had his Vice President or any of his senior cabinet members.
We thank the Regional Minister, Dr. Archibald Letsa for visiting some of the affected areas. The President left the shores of Ghana to the United States when some sections were already inundated. We consider this inhumane, uncaring, and bothering on insensitivity and demonstration as if the lives of the people of the Volta Region do not matter. It is the responsibility of the central government of any Republic to protect the rights and welfare of its citizen irrespective of where they live.
The case of Ghana seems different from this NPP administration. We are wondering whether the same attitude can be shown to other citizens facing this unforetold disaster through no fault of theirs. While we recognize that universal climate change issues might have contributed to torrential rains which culminated to excessive water which threatened the possibly collapse of the dam and its subsequent effects and the VRA authorities have to do the needful, we believe it goes to the unfortunate core of lack of maintenance culture as well as competent forecasting and planning in our governance and bureaucracy which would have mitigated the disastrous consequences.
For example, did the VRA engineers note what was happening in the world with record rainfalls and flooding? Was there an emergency planning committee as to what should be done in the event of excessive rain following existing protocols or developing contingency plans? Were those living downstream who would be affected notified and how early? One wonders why the VRA engineers are now visiting affected areas days after the spillage have occurred.
We consider that too late too soon !! If the spillage was well planned why were the people of Ghana not informed in advance or advised should have on a higher ground It is no gainsaying that since the construction of the Volta Dam the people of the Volta Region have endured most damage than any other region in Ghana. Environmental damage through inundation of massive faming lands, virgin forests and evacuation of ancestral homes to new locations with minimal compensation, paid and unpaid. We recall with sadness the destroying of fishing of fresh water shrimps, fresh water fish, crabs and others from Anyanui to other coastal areas.
We also note with disappointment how many years it took to have electricity extended to the Volta Region from the National grid. The continues saga has now turned from drought to excessive water which has taken over houses, some at window levels, some at roofing levels, people are trapped, some individuals are drowning snakes biting people in the water resulting in deaths.
This calamity has been exacerbated beyond what happened in the floods of 1963 and 1968 and no lessons were learned. As of going to press we can say with certainty that 101 communities with tens of thousands of people have been affected with the spillage and still counting (Central Tongu District 30, South Tongu 22, North Tongu 23, Keta District 10, Anlo 16).
We are concerned about disaster wrecked on these communities such as deaths due to drowning, sleep deprivation of the people affected with consequent mental health issues, closure of educational and medical facilities, massive loss of farmlands, business, and personal property, waterborne diseases, desecration of sacred and religious sites to mention a few.
We are concerned about the present and future health effects on these communities.
We suggest the Nana Akufo-Addo-led government do the needful and consider the following as soon as possible
1. Immediate resettlement of the people with the full cost borne by government
2. Set up a high-level committee including the indigenes as to how we got here and those who were negligent face disciplinary actions
3. Have a listing of all individuals affected by the disaster for compensation. This list and compensation should be audited and results be released
4. Marshall the forces of the military field engineers’ regiment for short term and long-term solution
5. Call on the security forces and traditional authorities and district assembly members to harness resources to prevent unscrupulous people who may want to take advantage of the situations and extort the communities who are inundated with water
6. Use helicopters for surveillance and mapping areas of the communities affected for current solutions and future prevention programs
7. It is incumbent to develop a total framework by professionals and not political hatchet men to deal with explaining and execution of disasters Thank you and may the Almighty bless Ghana. Long live the Homeland
