The Ghana Hydrological Authority has revealed that a staggering $5 billion is required to effectively combat flooding nationwide.
This substantial amount is critical for developing and implementing flood management strategies, upgrading infrastructure, and mitigating the damage caused by frequent floods.
Recent years have seen many regions suffering from severe and sudden flooding, leading to extensive property damage and, in some cases, loss of life.
The government has been working to address the issue, particularly in Accra.
To this end, Works and Housing Minister Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah has overseen the reconstruction of the Nima-Paloma storm drain, a key project extending from Asylum Down to the Odaw Channel.
“This significant milestone is expected to help reduce the perennial flooding challenges in Accra and bring much-needed relief to residents, commuters, traders, and businesses,” he said.
The government has also introduced a new Flood Early Warning System, which is set to be operational before the next rainy season.
In 2023, the Authority received GH¢92 million under the National Flood Control Programme.
However, Dr. John Kissi, the Authority’s Chief Executive Officer, told the Assurances Committee of Parliament on August 28 that this funding is inadequate.
“In 2023, under the National Flood Control Programme, we received about GH¢92 million to undertake flood mitigation works across the country,” Kissi said.
He explained that the proposed $5 billion is necessary for a comprehensive flood and waste management strategy.
“Based on our assessment of the flood and waste challenges across the country, we estimate that we need about $5 billion to comprehensively address these issues. This estimate covers every city and town in every region of the country,” he added.