TIG Post

Tag: Akosombo

  • Four generation units restored after fire at GRIDCo’s substation – Energy Ministry

    Four generation units restored after fire at GRIDCo’s substation – Energy Ministry

    The government’s efforts to stabilize Ghana’s power supply following the recent fire outbreak at GRIDCO’s substation at Akosombo are yielding results.

    In an Facebook post, on Tuesday, April 28, the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, disclosed that restoration works and progressing and the situation is nearing resolution.

    According to him, the fourth power generation unit at the Akosombo Dam has been successfully brought into operation.

    “At 9:09pm, the fourth unit at Akosombo Dam was successfully brought into operation, an encouraging step that strengthens power generation and reflects the dedication and expertise of the team behind the effort,” Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor wrote on Facebook.

    Meanwhile, the committee established to probe the fire outbreak at the Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) Akosombo Substation has been given a two-week deadline to conclude its findings, the Ministry of Energy has disclosed.

    Speaking to the media on Monday, April 27, the Spokesperson for the Energy Ministry, Richmond Rockson, stated that the decision to make the findings of the report public will depend on its nature and sensitivity.

    “The committee has two weeks to do its work and submit its report. Depending on the nature of the report, you can make it public, and sometimes, you may have to issue a white paper depending on the findings of the committee,” he added.

    Authorities over the weekend announced that they have set up a seven-member committee to investigate the recent explosion and fire outbreak at the GRIDCo Akosombo Substation, which occurred on the afternoon of Thursday, April 23.

    As a result, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Grid Company Limited, Ing. Mark Awuah Baah, has been directed by the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, to step aside as investigations begin into the fire outbreak at the Akosombo Power Control Centre.

    Recently, Ghana has been experiencing temporary power outages, locally known as “dumsor.”

    However, the Spokesperson and Head of Communications at the Ministry of Energy, Richmond Rockson, has attributed the disruption to damage caused to the transmission system with a capacity of about 720 megawatts as a result of the fire outbreak.

    He described the development as “a significant hit,” explaining that the affected system supplies electricity to major parts of the country.He added, “The system that got affected was about 720 megawatts. That system transmits power to major parts of the country, so this is a significant hit. The Akosombo Dam generates a little over 1,000 megawatts.”

    The Ministry of Energy and Green Transition has taken steps to avert disruptions in Ghana’s power supply following a major fire incident at the Akosombo transmission network.

    As part of the measures, Ghana will temporarily halt power supply to neighboring countries. The Deputy Energy Minister, Richard Gyan-Mensah disclosed while engaging the press on Friday, April 24.

    Ghana primarily exports electricity to Togo, Benin, and Burkina Faso through the 225kV Bolgatanga-Ouagadougou interconnection. To enhance revenue mobilisation in the energy sector and stabilise power supply, the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition says it will introduce standardised, accurate electricity meters from next month to boost revenue mobilisation and stabilise power supply.

    In a related development, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has apologised to Ghanaians over the recent power outages across the country.

    Speaking on the situation on the Channel One Newsroom on Sunday, April 26, ECG’s General Manager for External Relations, Dr Charles Nii Ayiku Ayiku, was sorry for the inconvenience caused, describing the incident as unexpected and significant.

    “I sincerely apologise for the inconvenience our cherished customers are facing. The incident wasn’t expected. It was a major incident that has rendered the entire control room affected and down, and we sincerely apologise to our customers.

    “After Akosombo, the fact is that it blocked about 1000 megawatts, but I am sure you also understand that even after losing 1000 megawatts, we have still been consistent with power supply within some parts of the country,” he said.

    He assured that his outfit is making relentless efforts with restoration works currently underway across the transmission network, with full restoration imminent soon, hence he urged the public to remain calm amid the inconveniences being caused by the outages.

    “The question is, the current situation at the Akosombo GRIDCO substation is a work in progress. As I speak to you, there is a resolution; there are some of the issues that have been resolved, some parts of the country are back on full supply, pending other lines that will be restored.

    “The engineers have assured us that very soon we will get back on supply. I would once again urge the general public and our customers to remain calm and be assured that the situation is under control,” he stated.

    Dr Ayiku cautioned against calls for a load-shedding timetable at this stage, describing it as premature.

    “So if we start talking about a load shedding timetable right now, don’t you think it is too early to call for a load shedding timetable?” he said.He added that ECG, GRIDCO, and the Volta River Authority (VRA) are working together to restore full power supply across the country.

  • GRIDCo CEO ordered to step aside to allow probe into fire outbreak at Akosombo

    GRIDCo CEO ordered to step aside to allow probe into fire outbreak at Akosombo

    The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Grid Company Limited (GRIDCo), Ing. Mark Awuah Baah, has been directed by the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, to step aside as investigations begin into the fire outbreak at the Akosombo Power Control Centre.

    Authorities over the weekend announced that they have set up a seven-member committee to investigate the recent explosion and fire outbreak at the GRIDCo Akosombo Substation, which occurred on the afternoon of Thursday, April 23.

    Recently, Ghana has been experiencing temporary power outages, locally known as “dumsor.” However, the Spokesperson and Head of Communications at the Ministry of Energy, Richmond Rockson, has attributed the disruption to damage caused to the transmission system with a capacity of about 720 megawatts as a result of the fire outbreak.
    He described the development as “a significant hit,” explaining that the affected system supplies electricity to major parts of the country.

    He added, “The system that got affected was about 720 megawatts. That system transmits power to major parts of the country, so this is a significant hit. The Akosombo Dam generates a little over 1,000 megawatts.”


    Meanwhile, the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition has taken steps to avert disruptions in Ghana’s power supply following a major fire incident at the Akosombo transmission network.


    As part of the measures, Ghana will temporarily halt power supply to neighboring countries. The Deputy Energy Minister, Richard Gyan-Mensah disclosed while engaging the press on Friday, April 24.


    Ghana primarily exports electricity to Togo, Benin and Burkina Faso through the 225kV Bolgatanga-Ouagadougou interconnection. To enhance revenue mobilisation in the energy sector and stabilise power supply, the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition says it will introduce standardised, accurate electricity meters from next month to boost revenue mobilisation and stabilise power supply.

    In a related development, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has apologised to Ghanaians over the recent power outages across the country.

    Speaking on the situation on the Channel One Newsroom on Sunday, April 26, ECG’s General Manager for External Relations, Dr Charles Nii Ayiku Ayiku, was sorry for the inconvenience caused, describing the incident as unexpected and significant.

    “I sincerely apologise for the inconvenience our cherished customers are facing. The incident wasn’t expected. It was a major incident which has rendered the entire control room affected and down, and we sincerely apologise to our customers.

    “After Akosombo, the fact is that it blocked about 1000 megawatts, but I am sure you also understand that even after losing 1000 megawatts, we have still been consistent with power supply within some parts of the country,” he said.

    He assured that his outfit is making relentless efforts with restoration works currently underway across the transmission network, with full restoration imminent soon, hence he urged the public to remain calm amid the inconveniences being caused by the outages.

    “The question is, the current situation at the Akosombo GRIDCO substation is a work in progress. As I speak to you, there is a resolution; there are some of the issues that have been resolved, some parts of the country are back on full supply, pending other lines that will be restored.

    “The engineers have assured us that very soon we will get back on supply. I would once again urge the general public and our customers to remain calm and be assured that the situation is under control,” he stated.

    Dr Ayiku cautioned against calls for a load-shedding timetable at this stage, describing it as premature.

    “So if we start talking about a load shedding timetable right now, don’t you think it is too early to call for a load shedding timetable?” he said.

    He added that ECG, GRIDCO, and the Volta River Authority (VRA) are working together to restore full power supply across the country.

  • Poor preparation, communication by VRA, NADMO and local authorities worsened impact of Akosombo Dam spillage – Report

    Poor preparation, communication by VRA, NADMO and local authorities worsened impact of Akosombo Dam spillage – Report

    The committee tasked to investigate the 2023 Akosombo Dam spillage has concluded its probe with a report highlighting how poor preparedness and communication by the Volta River Authority (VRA), the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), and local authorities intensified the devastating impact of the disaster.

    The five-member committee, inaugurated by President John Dramani Mahama, spent two months investigating the causes and response to the spillage and submitted its 110-page report to the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, on May 7.

    While the committee acknowledged that the primary cause of the spillage was to protect the dam from destruction, it strongly criticised the weak emergency response mechanisms that followed.

    It noted that the VRA’s Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPP), though technical and shared with stakeholders, suffered setbacks.

    “While VRA had socialised the document with all stakeholders and conducted a simulation exercise for some selected communities before the spill, high turnout and divisions amongst some District Chief Executives (DCEs)/Metropolitan Chief Executives (MCEs) and Members of Parliament (MPs) could have derailed clear communication lines for implementing the plan and distribution of relief items,” the report noted.

    Central to the committee’s findings was the failure of effective coordination among key agencies. Moreover, the response from government institutions revealed worrying gaps.

    “While there were efforts to provide immediate assistance, gaps in communication, resource allocation, and community engagement were identified,” the committee reported. It added that “operational challenges, such as a lack of local disaster preparedness plans and inadequate evacuation resources, hampered the emergency response process.”

    According to the report, other challenges included failed resettlement attempts, cultural resistance, and lack of consultation.

    “The people lament that their opinions were not sought in selecting the sites for the resettlement, and therefore, have refused to relocate and are requesting that the resettlement project be halted as the objective is not served,” the report said.
    The committee highlighted grievances from communities both upstream and downstream regarding compensation.


    “The affected people in these communities have not been adequately compensated for the devastating impact the floods had on their properties and source of livelihoods,” it noted.
    To avert future disasters, the committee called for urgent reforms, including better stakeholder coordination, improved community engagement, and the implementation of stricter land use regulations.

    The flood, which began mid-September 2023 and lasted over six weeks, displaced approximately 38,624 residents and wreaked havoc on properties, schools, health centres, and farmlands in communities such as North, Central, and South Tongu, Ada, and Kpong.

    Nearly 1,247 homes, 94 schools, and 17 health facilities were destroyed, while agricultural losses were estimated at $78 million.
    The immediate past government had allocated GH¢220 million as a form of support to the victims.

    However, it appeared that such funds never reached the victims, as they, and Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, threatened to drag the government to court.

    However, the incumbent government under the leadership of President John Mahama has pledged to compensate the affected individuals.

  • Police investigate attack on Prof. Opoku-Agyemang’s convoy at Akosombo

    Police investigate attack on Prof. Opoku-Agyemang’s convoy at Akosombo

    Ghana Police Service has announced that it has commenced investigations into an incident involving the convoy of Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, the running mate of the opposition National Democratic Congress.

    The incident occurred between Akuse and Kpong on the Akosombo-Accra Highway in the Eastern Region when a dispatch rider, approaching from the opposite direction, allegedly threw an object at the windscreen of one of the vehicles in her convoy, causing significant damage

    In a statement dated Saturday, November 30, 2024, the police explained that a dispatch rider traveling in the opposite direction of the convoy, which was moving between Akuse and Kpong on the Akosombo Highway, hurled an object at the windscreen of one of the vehicles, damaging the windshield.

    “The Ghana Police Service has commenced an investigation into an incident involving the convoy of Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, the running mate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), on Friday, November 29, 2024.

    Police statement on attack on Naana Jane

    “Preliminary police reports indicate that the incident occurred between Akuse and Kpong, along the Akosombo-Accra Highway in the Eastern Region, when a dispatch rider from the opposite direction allegedly threw an object at the windscreen of a vehicle in the running mate’s convoy, causing damage to the windscreen,” the police statement said.

    Political parties and candidates are in the final stages of their campaign activities for the 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections.

    Ghanaians will head to the polls on December 7 to elect a new president and parliamentary representatives.

    The police have assured the public of their commitment to conducting thorough investigations and maintaining peace and safety before, during, and after the elections.

  • Give us adequate resettlement before impending Akosombo Dam spillage begins – Mepe residents

    Give us adequate resettlement before impending Akosombo Dam spillage begins – Mepe residents

    Residents in flood-affected areas of the Lower Volta Basin are urging the government to finalize resettlement plans before the Volta River Authority (VRA) proceeds with its scheduled controlled spillage.

    After enduring months in temporary camps and deteriorating homes, these residents demand that the government honor its commitment to provide adequate resettlement housing. They feel neglected and abandoned by officials.

    Desmond Selase Aggor, Channel One News’ Volta Regional Correspondent, visited the affected communities to gauge their readiness for the VRA’s planned controlled release from the Akosombo Dam.

    The spillage, which started on September 15, 2023, followed rising water levels from heavy rainfall and has severely impacted numerous communities.

    By early October 2023, the increased water release had exacerbated flooding, leading to widespread displacement and damage.

    The floodwaters submerged entire areas, including parts of the Central and North Tongu Districts, where around 25% of Mepe was underwater.

    Residents have been forced into makeshift camps, facing overcrowding, limited clean water, and poor sanitation, which heightens the risk of waterborne diseases. Despite these conditions, some are still living in these temporary shelters ten months later.

    In interviews, Mepe residents expressed frustration over the lack of compensation. 66-year-old Asitorakor Akuovi, who lost her home and possessions, has yet to receive any aid.

    Mankralo Togbe Korsi Nego IV of the Mepe Traditional Area criticized the government for failing to fulfill its promises and called for compensation and better communication from the VRA before the spillage.

    Flooding has also damaged road infrastructure, with Mepe residents urging for urgent repairs. Doris Zowada, a 68-year-old from the island community of Awadiwoe-Kome in the Central Tongu District, described the ongoing hardships from the flood’s impact on her home and farm.

    Togbe Kwabla Sakpiti V, Chief of New Bakpa, noted that while support was initially provided, it has since ceased, and government projects have stalled.

    He praised corporate entities like Citi FM/Channel One TV for their continued aid and warned of further damage from the planned spillage.

    As the VRA prepares for the spillage, affected communities are calling for the completion of government resettlement projects and the provision of alternative accommodations. Some Assembly members in the Central and North Tongu Districts are ready for the spillage but are concerned about the government’s failure to provide adequate housing.

    The Ghana Education Service in the Volta Region reports that lessons have been learned from last year’s floods and that preparations are underway. They have urged parents to take preventive measures before the spillage.

    Thomas Moore Zonyrah, District Chief Executive for Central Tongu, highlighted ongoing preparations by NADMO, VRA, and local assemblies in response to the anticipated spillage.

  • Construction works for Ashaiman-Akosombo Junction road resume

    Construction works for Ashaiman-Akosombo Junction road resume

    The 64km Ashaiman to Akosombo Junction Road project has resumed after a nearly year-long pause.

    This initiative, part of the Eastern Corridor Road upgrade (Lot 1), includes several critical components: the construction of a dual carriageway from Ashaiman Roundabout to Akosombo Junction, a flyover at Ashaiman Roundabout, an interchange at Asutsuare Junction, and the addition of 11 pedestrian footbridges and three river bridges.

    Other enhancements include drainage systems and walkways.

    Hon. Francis Asenso-Boakye, the Minister for Roads and Highways, recently visited the site during his trip to the Volta and Oti regions to review the ongoing work.

    Currently, the contractor is focusing on earthworks between Asutsuare Junction and Akuse Junction to expand the road into a dual carriageway. Additionally, new work sites have opened up, including site clearing from Doryumu Junction towards Asutsuare Junction.

    The project, which commenced in May 2022 and is scheduled for completion by November 2024, experienced a suspension starting in July 2023 due to the government’s debt exchange programme.

  • Akosombo Dam spillage victims have not received funds from govt – NDC

    Akosombo Dam spillage victims have not received funds from govt – NDC


    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has contested government assertions regarding the allocation of approximately GH¢80 million for rehabilitation efforts in flood-affected communities following the spillage of the Akosombo and Kpong Dams.

    The opposition party refutes any ongoing intervention works by the government or substantial relief efforts for victims of the 2023 flooding incidents.

    NDC’s Volta Regional Communications Officer, Sorkpa Kafui Agbleze, emphasized in a press release.

    According to him, it is unacceptable for the government to make false assurances and for the President to misinform the public about the aid being provided to alleviate their suffering.

    “It is therefore unconscionable for the government to make false promises and for the President to mislead the public about the support being provided to mitigate their suffering”, he added.

    President Akufo-Addo, in his 67th National Independence Day address in Koforidua, claimed, “As set out in the 2024 budget, the Government has set aside two hundred and twenty million cedis (GH¢220 million), of which eighty million cedis (GH¢80 million) has already been released by the Ministry of Finance, to support the ongoing rehabilitation efforts for the affected communities. The government will stop at nothing to restore normalcy to the lives and livelihoods of all affected persons.”

    The NDC contends that this statement is misleading, as there are no visible signs of rehabilitation projects or financial aid in the affected areas. They assert, “It is evident that the promised relief funds have not been provided.”

    Instead, private individuals, organizations, companies, and foreign entities have stepped in with deliberate interventions, driven by continuous advocacy and appeals.

    The lack of transparency and accountability in the disbursement of the allocated funds intended to aid flood victims is questioned by Mr. Agbleze.

    He lamented that victims continue to endure the catastrophic consequences of the disaster, including displacement of thousands, loss of livelihoods, and property damage worth millions of cedis.

    The NDC demands that the NPP government refrain from politicizing the human-induced disaster, provide immediate clarification on the status of the allocated funds, and ensure prompt distribution to the intended beneficiaries.

    They stressed that the people of the Volta Region, like all other regions, deserve complete transparency and timely assistance during this crisis.

    Mr. Agbleze concluded by affirming the NDC’s unwavering solidarity with the people of the Volta Region and their commitment to advocating for their rights, interests, and welfare.

    “We call on the NPP government to desist from callously politicizing the human-induced disaster, immediately provide clarity on the status of the allocated funds, and ensure that they get to the intended beneficiaries without further delay. The people of the Volta Region, like any other region, deserve nothing less than full transparency and timely assistance in this time of crisis.

    “The NDC stands in solidarity with the people of the Volta Region and will thus relentlessly continue to advocate for their rights, interests, and welfare”, he concluded.

  • GHS80m released by govt to support Akosombo flood victims – Akufo-Addo

    GHS80m released by govt to support Akosombo flood victims – Akufo-Addo

    The Ministry of Finance, on behalf of the government, has disbursed GH¢80 million to aid the victims of the Akosombo Dam spillage.

    This was made known by President Akufo-Addo during the 67th Independence Day parade in the Eastern region on Wednesday March 6, 2024.

    The released funds constitute part of the GH¢220 million earmarked to support the ongoing rehabilitation efforts in the affected communities.

    President Akufo-Addo assured that the government is fully committed to restoring normalcy to the lives and livelihoods of all affected individuals.

    “Government will stop at nothing to restore normalcy to the lives and livelihoods of all affected persons,” he assured.

    This announcement follows criticism from North Tongu Member of Parliament (MP) Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who expressed disappointment in the President for not addressing the victims in his State of the Nation Address (SONA).

    Mr Ablakwa, representing a constituency severely impacted by the spillage in October 2023, condemned the President’s perceived neglect as un-Ghanaian.

    President Akufo-Addo, in his Independence Day address, covered various achievements of his administration, including the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, the Bawku conflict, constitution amendment, Ghana’s IMF deal, health, and the upcoming 2024 elections.

    However, he did not address the plight of the victims who have suffered losses in livelihoods and properties due to the spillage caused by the Volta River Authority (VRA).

    In response to the omission, Ablakwa highlighted the unfortunate situation for Ghana, particularly for the 40,000 victims, some of whom have been living in tents for the past five months.

  • Employees at ATL are not striking – Management

    Employees at ATL are not striking – Management

    Akosombo Textiles Limited’s management refutes claims of a sit-down strike by its staff, countering earlier media reports.

    The alleged strike, reportedly sparked by unpaid salaries, outstanding allowances, and concerns about the sale of machinery dating back to 2021, is denied by the company.

    In contradiction to the reported claims, the management asserts that the factory is operating at full capacity, with no ongoing strike.

    They emphasize the uninterrupted production and service to customers, highlighting their commitment to promptly addressing labor-related issues.

    In a concise statement, the company reassures the public, stating, “The management of Akosombo Industrial Co. Ltd wishes to assure the public that there is no strike at the factory. The factory is fully operational, production is ongoing, and customers are being served. Management remains committed to addressing labor issues when they arise.”

    Additionally, the company underscores its dedication to enhancing efficiency and meeting market demands by investing in new machinery, including a biomass boiler and advanced printing machines.

  • ECG/VRA reportedly issuing bills to victims of Akosombo dam spillage despite no electricity usage

    ECG/VRA reportedly issuing bills to victims of Akosombo dam spillage despite no electricity usage

    Residents of Mepe in the Volta region are reportedly grappling with an unexpected burden in the aftermath of the Akosombo dam spillage that destroyed their livelihoods.

    According to reports emerging from the area, residents are being issued electricity bills for homes left uninhabited due to the disaster.

    Despite the flooding rendering many homes inaccessible and meters submerged, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) in collaboration with the Volta River Authority (VRA) is reportedly issuing bills to affected residents, demanding payment for electricity usage even when none has occurred.

    One resident, who reported the incident on social media, expressed frustration over the situation, stating, “Since this incident occurred till now, some of us have not gained access to our homes again. And this household, both the meter was all drowned in the water and since then till today that I’m talking to you, no one is staying in this house.”

    https://twitter.com/ddhellali/status/1754796935003660707?s=46

    The resident further explained that despite the meters being submerged and rendered inoperative, ECG and VRA have managed to read the meters and billed them for an amount totaling GHs 2,325.98.

    “This months’ bill arrived, meanwhile, the meter is spoiled and nobody is in the house, but they managed to bring this bill to us,” lamented the resident, highlighting the absurdity of the situation.

  • Akosombo dam spillage: USAID pledges $500k aid to affected schools

    Akosombo dam spillage: USAID pledges $500k aid to affected schools


    In a bid to restore normalcy in flood-affected communities across the Volta Region, a $500,000 USAID support is poised to benefit schools and students.

    These schools bore the brunt of the severe impact of the flood crisis, with many either submerged or repurposed as shelters for displaced residents.

    US Ambassador Virginia Palmer underscored the life-saving collaboration between Ghana and the United States, particularly in response to the spillage of the Akosombo and Kpong Dams in October 2023.

    This event displaced numerous residents in the Greater Accra, Eastern, and Volta Regions, hitting the North Tongu District, especially the town of Mepe, the hardest.

    Despite a significant reduction in floodwaters and the return of many residents to their homes, the aftermath reveals the destruction of several school buildings and educational materials. Some schools continue to serve as temporary shelters for displaced residents yet to return home.

    During a working visit with the Minister for Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, US Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Virginia Palmer, highlighted the substantial benefits arising from the collaboration between Ghana and the United States.

    She emphasized the active efforts of USAID and UNICEF to restore teaching and learning in flood-affected areas by providing assistance to the affected schools and communities.

    In his address, Minister for Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, encouraged parents in the affected areas to seize the opportunity of the government’s free SHS policy and enroll their children in school.

    Acknowledging the implementation of several initiatives aimed at rebuilding the affected communities and schools, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Member of Parliament for North Tongu, emphasized the ongoing commitment to these efforts.

  • 300 dam spillage victims will enjoy free utility and rent – Ablakwa

    300 dam spillage victims will enjoy free utility and rent – Ablakwa

    Approximately 300 individuals, affected by the spillage of the Akosombo and Kpong Dams, have been successfully relocated to fully-furnished residences constructed by North Tongu’s Member of Parliament, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.

    Ablakwa, who had earlier accommodated the group temporarily at St. Kizito SHS, announced the successful transition of the affected residents.

    Despite the quarters being a temporary arrangement, the MP emphasized its positive impact—allowing the school to resume its original function while affording constituents a decent living arrangement until they can fully recover.

    In a post dated December 9, 2023, Ablakwa highlighted that residents would not be burdened with rent or utility fees during their stay in the provided accommodation.

    Read his full post below:

    Tonight, some 300 beloved constituents of mine are going to bed in far better conditions than the congested classrooms they have been compelled to live in for the past 10 weeks.

    Relocation day has been a great success.

    God bless Construction Ambassadors of the First Sky Group for the building, our revered chiefs for the land, the MP’s office for furnishing and courtyard preparation.

    As emphasized earlier, all occupants will not pay rent. The MP’s office shall also take care of all utilities (electricity and water bills) until my beloved displaced constituents are resettled in their permanent homes.

    This Safe Alternative Housing Project provides another key advantage of ensuring that all displaced persons at Mepe St. Kizito Senior Technical School have now been relocated so that the school which almost collapsed would be saved. The stranded 800 first-year students can now report to school. Continuing students in 2nd and 3rd year can also prepare to resume after losing some 6 weeks.

    My office will strongly support every effort to revive St. Kizito and offer special interventions to catch up with schools across the country.

    I commend all our volunteers and partners who made this new beautiful housing project possible in just 7 weeks.

    Now, let’s go make our second Safe Alternative Housing Project in Mepe another success.

    In this together, rising together.

  • Dr Lawrence Tetteh close tears on live TV over hardship of Dam spillage victims

    Dr Lawrence Tetteh close tears on live TV over hardship of Dam spillage victims

    Renowned Evangelist Dr Lawrence Tetteh was visibly close to tears recounting the hardship displaced victims of the Akosombo Dam spillage has to endure.

    Despite the numerous humanitarian effort extended, the flood victims have lost a great deal of properties and livelihood including their homes, Dr Lawrence Tetteh said choking with emotions.

    We are politicizing everything, people’s lives are stake, I am coming from Volta, infact we are taking food and things there but people dont have places to sleep . Children who were born that day are losing their lives and as a man God, I look at this as inhuman. This nonsense of GHC40m doesnt solve the problem. Poeple have lost everything.”

    Spillage

    The Volta River Authority (VRA) commenced 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.

    Described as a disaster mitigation plan, the spillage exercise started at a very low rate without any significant impact on the downstream communities until October 10, 2023 when six spillage gates were opened to increase the flow as water-inflow to the reservoir kept increasing and levels got close to the maximum capacity that the dam can take.

    The exercise, the VRA indicated, was a crucial one aimed at protecting the dam’s integrity and technological installations.

    The heightened spillage has led to an overflow of the Volta River’s banks and displacing settlements in about nine different district assemblies in the Volta and Eastern regions including North, Central and South Tongu District Assemblies, Asuogyaman, Shai Osudoku and Ada.

    Almost all communities along the lower Volta Basin have been affected resulting in widespread power cuts in affected communities, submerged houses, with displaced people going hungry.

    The volume of water spilled from the dams has also caused some lagoons in the Keta basin to overflow their banks, leading to flooding in some communities in the Anlo and Keta districts.

    A number of notable hospitality facilities affected by the floods include Villa Cisneros, Sogakope Beach Resort and Spa, and Holy Trinity Spa and Health Farm.

    At least, 25 nurses were evacuated from the nurses’ quarters at the Comboni District Hospital in Sogakope.

    Background

    This year’s spillage exercise is not the first time VRA is spilling water from the Akosombo Dam.

     A similar exercise was carried out in 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1974, 1991 with the recent one done in 2010.

    They were all done to prevent water from overtopping the dam.

    To mitigate the impact of such exercises, the VRA developed the Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPP).

    The EPP is in three phases with phase one having water spilled very low and not exceeding 5,000 metric cubes (m3), phase two keeps spillage between 5,000 and 10,000 m3 while phase three is volume above that of the second phase.

  • Rev. Opuni-Frimpong calls for accountability following damage caused by dam spillage, says ‘we cannot let this pass’

    Rev. Opuni-Frimpong calls for accountability following damage caused by dam spillage, says ‘we cannot let this pass’

    Former General Secretary of the Christian Council of Ghana, Rev. Dr. Kwabena Opuni-Frimpong, has called for accountability regarding the scale of the damage resulting from the controlled water release from the Akosombo and Kpong Dams.

    He emphasised that those accountable for the spillage should be held responsible.

    The Volta River Authority (VRA) initiated the controlled water release on September 15, 2023, in response to a sustained increase in the inflow pattern and water level of the Akosombo reservoir.

    This action resulted in the flooding of numerous homes in various areas, including South Tongu, North Tongu, Central Tongu, and Asuogyaman.

    In an interview with Citi News, Rev. Dr. Opuni Frimpong underscored the necessity of identifying the consultants responsible for conducting feasibility studies and assessments of the anticipated consequences of the spillage.

    “We need to find out who the consultants were who did the feasibility studies and what impacts they were expecting for this spillage,” he stated.

    He emphasised the importance of holding individuals accountable for the consequences that people in parts of Ghana are currently facing, stating, “We need to let people take responsibility for their actions. We cannot let this pass.”

  • Dam spill floods 500 hectares of rice, 40 hectares of banana farms at Asutuare

    Dam spill floods 500 hectares of rice, 40 hectares of banana farms at Asutuare

    The continuous release of surplus water from the Akosombo and Kpong Dams in the Eastern Region, which has persisted for weeks, has wreaked havoc by not only damaging infrastructure and displacing a large number of people but also ravaging vast areas of farmland and disrupting fishing activities.

    In Asutuare, a community situated in the Shai Osudoku District of the Greater Accra Region, the floods have inundated extensive hectares of banana and rice farms, resulting in substantial crop losses that are unlikely to recover.

    A visit by GhanaWeb to the community on October 17, 2023, to assess the scale of the devastation revealed that most of the food crops had been submerged. Farmers were anxiously awaiting the water to recede so they could prepare the land for new planting.

    Many farmers, seen navigating their submerged fields, appeared visibly distressed and uncertain about how to provide for their families.

    In Asutuare, about 450 rice farmers, who are part of the Kpong Irrigation Scheme, are grappling with the consequences of losing hundreds of hectares of their primary source of income.

    The decision to release water from the Akosombo and Kpong dams a few weeks ago has left a trail of submerged farmlands overwhelmed by the vast volumes of water.

    Charles Tetteh Hombey, Chairman of the Southern Low-Level Canal A Branch and General Secretary of the Water Users Association, described the destruction to the farms as “severe.”

    “This is the biggest irrigation scheme in the country and we also produce two times in a year, so it also tells you the number of rice we push onto the Ghanaian market and so as a result of this, a whole lot of quantity of rice coming from our end would not hit the market as expected which is also going to have a food security crisis for our country”, he said.

    Asked if the situation could increase the price of rice on the market, he answered: “It’s likely to have a food security impact and prices of rice would go higher because almost the inner valley along the Volta and then Kintampo, Brong-Ahafo areas who also produce the rice, you know some of these overflows also affected them.”

    Impact of flooding on VREL banana farms:

    Approximately 40 out of the total 120 hectares of farmland at one of Volta River Estates Limited’s (VREL) farms in Asutuare, including fruit-bearing crops ready for harvest, have been submerged due to the flood.

    An additional 30 hectares are inaccessible because of the water situation.

    According to Ebenezer Dotse Narobi Jnr, the Plantation Manager at VREL, the flooding occurred just two weeks after a substantial amount of fertilizer had been applied to the farms.

    He explained that despite being aware of the impending dam spillage, the warning from the Volta River Authority (VRA) did not provide sufficient time to prepare for the full extent of the impact.

    “We were told that they were going to open two or three spillways so the impact was not going to be huge only for us to come overnight and realize that all our pumps are flooded…since then we’ve not been able to pump water for the past three weeks”, he said.

    Explaining the situation he said, “As we speak, for the past three weeks, close to 40 hectares of the entire plantation is underwater and then about 30 hectares are not accessible, so you can just imagine, close to about 70 hectares of the farm is not available to us now and it’s been the story for the past two weeks.”

    With bananas unable to survive for more than 72 hours in water, the submerged farms valued at several millions of Cedis which have been affected for weeks now, though still standing, have been destroyed.

    According to him, the destruction would take the company about a year to recover the lost plantation.

    “If the banana is submerged, after 72 hours, there’s nothing you can do, they’re dead living plants…we only wait for the water to recede after two or three weeks, we go and cut everything down, allow the land to dry, then replant and that should take us close to a year to be able to recover that very land,” he explained.

    Though the situation does not immediately call for lay-offs, he said such action could not immediately be ruled out.

    He called for an improvement in the country’s early warning systems to avert situations as this to save lives and properties.

  • Akosombo spillage: Fish farmers along Volta Lake lost GHS46M worth of fish stock – Chamber of Aquaculture

    The Chamber of Aquaculture Ghana has revealed that fish farmers operating along the Volta Lake have incurred losses amounting to ₵46 million due to the release of water from the Akosombo Dam.

    Recently, the Volta River Authority (VRA) opened the dam gates to prevent damage to the hydropower plant caused by rising water levels. This move, however, has had dire consequences for fish farmers in the region.

    The Chamber of Aquaculture Ghana expressed deep concern about the devastating impact of the recent spillage on its members. The release of water has led to significant destruction of assets and investments for cage farmers operating along the Volta Lake.

    In a statement, the Chamber reported that more than 500 cages have been destroyed, resulting in the loss of valuable fish stock, brood stocks, and fingerlings. Additionally, some hatcheries located near the Volta River have been submerged.

    “Over 500 cages have been destroyed. Cage farmers are losing their livestock fish stock, brood stocks, and fingerlings. Some hatcheries situated close to the Volta River bank have been submerged,” the Chamber said in a statement.

    The Chamber estimates that its members and other cage farmers operating on the Volta River have collectively lost approximately ₵46 million in investments due to the spillage from the Akosombo Dam.

    They emphasized that the current damage to fish farming assets in the Ada estuary is irreparable.

    The Chamber of Aquaculture Ghana called upon the government and relevant stakeholders to provide assistance to the affected fish farmers in the wake of this spillage.

    “The Chamber of Aquaculture Ghana is also calling on the government, the sector ministry, stakeholders, and other supporting agencies to come to the aid of fish farmers affected by the recent spillage. We would therefore encourage fish farmers to subscribe to aquaculture insurance, which could have absorbed some of the losses they have incurred,” it read.

    They also encouraged fish farmers to consider subscribing to aquaculture insurance as a way to mitigate some of the financial losses they’ve experienced.

    Furthermore, the Chamber advised the Volta River Authority to adopt prudent measures to minimize damage to cage farms on the Volta Lake.

    “The Chamber is also calling on the Volta River Authority to use the various media outlets and other platforms to constantly announce to its stakeholders the volume of water being spilled, as this will enable cage farmers to adequately prepare and put in place measures that will mitigate the impact of the spillage,” it said.

    They urged the VRA to regularly communicate the volume of water being released through various media outlets to help cage farmers prepare and implement measures to mitigate the impact of future spillages.

    The Chamber emphasized the importance of cage farmers taking precautions to safeguard their investments.

    “In addition to anchoring the cages, cage farmers are encouraged to constantly monitor the activities of the Volta River Authority in order to prevent any unaware situation that will cause further havoc to assets and investments. Cage Farmers should fix floats or barrels around cages to minimize the direct impact of the fast-moving water currents.

    This includes adjusting anchors to secure cages firmly, monitoring VRA activities closely, placing floats or barrels around cages to reduce the direct impact of fast-moving water currents, avoiding overstocking cages, harvesting mature fish before spillage occurs, and ensuring that feeders and divers are vigilant in monitoring the condition of nets and debris.

  • Third kit of FC Nordsjaelland unveiled in ‘Ghanaian style’

    Third kit of FC Nordsjaelland unveiled in ‘Ghanaian style’

    For the 2023/24 season, FC Nordsjaelland has infused a touch of Ghanaian essence into their third kit, a result of their deep-rooted connection with football in Ghana, fostered through the Right to Dream Academy located in Akosombo.

    This distinctive jersey is a manifestation of the club’s collaboration with Nike and their embrace of the cherished Ghanaian symbol, Dwennimmen, derived from the Akan tradition, which embodies the virtue of humility.

    The embodiment of staying grounded, symbolized by Dwennimmen, aligns harmoniously with FC Nordsjaelland’s core values, exemplifying their commitment to remaining humble in the face of success. Beyond Dwennimmen, two additional symbols have been thoughtfully interwoven into the kit’s design, each carrying profound significance.

    The Gebo symbol, thoughtfully chosen by the Danish academy, conveys the idea of ‘partnership,’ serving as a representation of the unity that binds together the various structures within the club’s academy system.

    It serves as a visual testament to the collaborative efforts that contribute to the club’s success.

    The third symbol, Ankh, meticulously selected by the Egyptian Academy, embodies the concept of ‘family,’ symbolizing the notion that, irrespective of diverse backgrounds, the entirety of the club forms a closely-knit and interconnected family unit. This symbol resonates with the idea of a shared sense of belonging and camaraderie.

    The unveiling of this exceptional jersey sets the stage for its inaugural appearance during FC Nordsjaelland’s Europa League qualifier match against FCSB in Romania, a confirmation made by UEFA.

    FC Nordsjaelland’s commitment to nurturing African talent is palpable through their collaborations with Ghanaian prodigies such as Mohammed Kudus and Kamaldeen Suleman, underscoring the club’s dedication to fostering growth and development in the African football landscape.

  • VRA suspends planned spillage of water from Akosombo, Kpong dams

    The Volta River Authority (VRA) has put a stop to the water release from the Akosombo and Kpong Dams that was scheduled to happen.

    According to a statement released by the VRA on Monday, the inflows into the Akosombo Reservoir have decreased to normal levels, meaning that the safety of its Dams is not under danger [adrotate class=”2″].

    This comes after the Volta catchment area’s rainfall decreased over the previous week.

    The Akosombo and Kpong dams might potentially spill last week after the Volta River Authority (VRA) noticed a continual high rise in the dams that necessitated a spillage to maintain their integrity.

    “We have observed a consistent high rise in the Akosombo reservoir elevation over the past few weeks. If the current situation persists, it may result in the possible controlled spilling from the Akosombo and Kpong dams from November 1, 2022, to maintain the integrity of the Dam”, portions of the release read.

    But the VRA said the planned spillage of water from the two dams won’t be carried out, as earlier announced.

    However, it said all persons living along the banks of the Volta River downstream of the two Dams must remain alert until the rainy season is over.

    “VRA will also continue to monitor the situation, work with stakeholders, and issue updates should further developments occur,” the statement read.