The Volta Regional Minister, Dr. Archibald Yao Letsa, has shared that the government’s inter-ministerial committee, assigned to tackle the aftermath of the recent Akosombo Dam spillage disaster in the Lower Volta basin, has pinpointed suitable lands for the relocation of displaced residents in the affected communities.
The disaster took a toll on thousands of locals, especially children and the elderly, in the three Tongu districts of the region.
Various charitable institutions and organizations, including CitiTV/CitiFM, have been contributing relief items to assist those affected by the spillage.
As a result of the disaster, more than 30,000 individuals have been displaced, seeking shelter in public schools, relocating to nearby communities, or residing with relatives and friends.
For over a month, homes, schools, businesses, farms, and shops remained submerged, with the floodwaters only recently receding in the affected communities.
Numerous affected residents have expressed dissatisfaction with the perceived delay by the Volta River Authority (VRA) and the government in promptly resettling them.
Speaking at a press conference in Ho on Thursday (28 December), Minister Letsa affirmed that the government has completed the resettlement proceedings, designating specific lands in the Mepe and New-Bakpa areas for development.
“We’ve identified some places in New Bakpa and some places in Mepe for the resettlement.
“We’re receiving support from the United Nations and other organizations, including the private sector, the construction sector, and other organizations that are assisting us,” the minister confirmed.
“We’ve identified some places in New Bakpa and some places in Mepe for the resettlement,” confirmed the minister.
He added that international bodies and non-governmental organizations are collaborating with the government to execute the resettlement project.
“We’re receiving support from the United Nations and other organizations, including the private sector, the construction sector, and other organizations that are assisting us.”
Although the education of children in the affected communities suffered significantly, Letsa assured that the government has addressed educational challenges, stating, “almost all the children are back in school.”