Residents in flood-affected areas of the Lower Volta Basin are urging the government to finalize resettlement plans before the Volta River Authority (VRA) proceeds with its scheduled controlled spillage.
After enduring months in temporary camps and deteriorating homes, these residents demand that the government honor its commitment to provide adequate resettlement housing. They feel neglected and abandoned by officials.
Desmond Selase Aggor, Channel One News’ Volta Regional Correspondent, visited the affected communities to gauge their readiness for the VRA’s planned controlled release from the Akosombo Dam.
The spillage, which started on September 15, 2023, followed rising water levels from heavy rainfall and has severely impacted numerous communities.
By early October 2023, the increased water release had exacerbated flooding, leading to widespread displacement and damage.
The floodwaters submerged entire areas, including parts of the Central and North Tongu Districts, where around 25% of Mepe was underwater.
Residents have been forced into makeshift camps, facing overcrowding, limited clean water, and poor sanitation, which heightens the risk of waterborne diseases. Despite these conditions, some are still living in these temporary shelters ten months later.
In interviews, Mepe residents expressed frustration over the lack of compensation. 66-year-old Asitorakor Akuovi, who lost her home and possessions, has yet to receive any aid.
Mankralo Togbe Korsi Nego IV of the Mepe Traditional Area criticized the government for failing to fulfill its promises and called for compensation and better communication from the VRA before the spillage.
Flooding has also damaged road infrastructure, with Mepe residents urging for urgent repairs. Doris Zowada, a 68-year-old from the island community of Awadiwoe-Kome in the Central Tongu District, described the ongoing hardships from the flood’s impact on her home and farm.
Togbe Kwabla Sakpiti V, Chief of New Bakpa, noted that while support was initially provided, it has since ceased, and government projects have stalled.
He praised corporate entities like Citi FM/Channel One TV for their continued aid and warned of further damage from the planned spillage.
As the VRA prepares for the spillage, affected communities are calling for the completion of government resettlement projects and the provision of alternative accommodations. Some Assembly members in the Central and North Tongu Districts are ready for the spillage but are concerned about the government’s failure to provide adequate housing.
The Ghana Education Service in the Volta Region reports that lessons have been learned from last year’s floods and that preparations are underway. They have urged parents to take preventive measures before the spillage.
Thomas Moore Zonyrah, District Chief Executive for Central Tongu, highlighted ongoing preparations by NADMO, VRA, and local assemblies in response to the anticipated spillage.