Cabinet Initiates 3-Day Retreat to Address Economy and Akosombo Dam-Induced Flood

President Akufo-Addo and his cabinet are embarking on a three-day retreat, commencing on Friday, October 20, with the primary focus on discussing strategies to reinvigorate Ghana’s economy. This engagement also aims to address the actions required by the government to secure the second tranche of a $600 million balance of payment support from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) after a staff agreement has been reached.

Additionally, the cabinet will deliberate on immediate measures to assist the victims affected by the Akosombo Dam spillage. This crisis began on September 15 when the Volta River Authority initiated the release of excess water due to rising water levels in the Akosombo and Kpong hydro dams.

Several weeks following the commencement of the spillage, numerous residents residing along the Lower Volta Basin have experienced the devastating impact of this flood. The aftermath of the spillage has led to the loss of homes and farmlands.

Currently, nine districts find themselves grappling with the consequences of this flood, and the inhabitants are facing a severe humanitarian crisis. The heart-wrenching stories have emerged from the South, Central, and North Tongu districts in the Volta Region, where the extent of the devastation is immeasurable.

Once-thriving communities like Battor, Tefle, Mepe, Sogakope, Adidome, and Anlo have been submerged, and their very existence appears to be on the brink of being swallowed by the relentless waters.

Numerous residents have undertaken self-evacuation, and the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) and other agencies have rallied to provide assistance in these rescue efforts. Additionally, some institutions and individuals have generously contributed relief items to support the affected residents.

Meanwhile, Vice President Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia has stressed the need for stakeholders to contemplate the re-engineering of the Akosombo Dam to effectively manage future spillages and mitigate their devastating impact on the communities’ livelihoods. This action is considered necessary to safeguard the dam, protect lives, preserve livelihoods, and secure properties in the face of the imminent threat posed by climate change.

President Akufo-Addo’s Visit to Flooded Areas and Relief Pledge