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.