The Akufo Addo led NPP government has reassured flood victims of the Akosombo Dam Spillage of its total support to keep them out of their current difficult situation.
Government through the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) is providing both technical and logistical support to flood victims with the support of the Ghana Armed Forces, the Volta River Authority and the various District and Municipal Assemblies
It will be recalled that The Volta River Authority (VRA) recently initiated a controlled spillage of water from the Akosombo and Kpong Dams. This decision was triggered by a continuous rise in the inflow pattern and water level of the Akosombo reservoir, leading to devastating consequences for residents in the Central Tongu, North Tongu, Keta, and Anlo Municipalities/Districts, as their homes and businesses were inundated due to the dam spillage.
In the wake of these events, certain members of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) have accused the government of exclusionary politics, prompting concerns about possible underlying political motives. It is important to note, however, that the government of Ghana has risen to the challenge with a response that is both impressive and heartening, marking a significant departure from previous administrations and painting a picture of proactive governance.
While past flooding disasters exposed shortcomings in government response, this year’s approach has been remarkable. Notably, the VRA diligently informed all stakeholders, including downstream communities, about the impending spillage in strict adherence to its emergency preparedness plan and standard operating procedures.
The exceptional inter-agency collaboration between the VRA and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) dovetailed the government’s efforts, ensuring that relief reached those who needed it most. Not only did they offer shelter; they orchestrated a lifeline, providing mattresses, mosquito nets, daily sustenance, and clothing post-evacuation.
Moreover, they have provided medical care to victims, irrespective of insurance status, reinforcing the government’s commitment to the well-being of citizens. It is worth emphasising that the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), under the command of Rear Admiral Issah Adam Yakubu, the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), stood in unity with allied agencies to support the evacuation and relief efforts. Notably, the 48 Engineer Regiment has been pivotal in alleviating the woes of flood-affected citizens.
As a case in point, on Sunday, October 15, 2023, Hon. Eric Nana Agyemang-Prempeh, the Director General of NADMO, led a team from GAF headed by the CNS for an aerial tour of places affected by the Volta Dam spillage. The team also visited some safe havens at Mepa in the North Tongu District and Akpa in the Central Tongu District, where approximately 6,000 affected victims are accommodated by NADMO and VRA. The delegation was accompanied by Mr. Emmanuel Antwi-Darkwa, the CEO of VRA, and his deputies, the deputy DG for NADMO, and the chief executives of affected districts and municipalities.
As the government took centre stage, H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, President of the Republic, as a beacon of commitment and compassion, has been instrumental in orchestrating an effective and integrated response. His unwavering resolve to ease the plight of victims is evident in the formation of a high-powered inter-ministerial committee, spearheaded by the Chief of Staff and comprised of ministers overseeing local government, works and housing, roads and highways, environment, and information, and with the responsibility of ensuring a coherent and coordinated response. The synergy within this committee is, perhaps, the reason for the remarkable response. Beyond this crisis, it serves as a fulcrum for seamless governance during an emergency.
While there is always room for improvement, the Ghanaian government should be commended for its swift, responsive, compassionate, coordinated, and comprehensive actions during this crisis. By notifying stakeholders, evacuating residents, and delivering essential relief, they have demonstrated their dedication to the welfare of citizens. In the darkest hours, the nation’s leadership has shone brightly, showing that, when committed, Ghana can weather any storm.
