The Ghana Irrigation Development Authority (GIDA) has denied allegations of selling lands downstream of the Dawhenya irrigation scheme.
In response to the displacement of residents due to flooding caused by the dam’s spillage, GIDA clarified that no staff has the authority to sell lands in that area.
The authority emphasized the collaborative efforts with local chiefs and opinion leaders to confirm its lack of power in land sales.
“No staff of GIDA has the power to sell lands downstream of the Dawhenya irrigation scheme. This can be confirmed by the chiefs and opinion leaders who live right in the town centre and would have reported to management. People have put up structures in the waterway downstream,” GIDA stated.
GIDA highlighted its consistent spilling practices since 1979, the acquisition of lands by the state, and ongoing protection measures against encroachment.
The Dawhenya Irrigation Scheme plays a crucial role, supporting rice farmers and commercial flower production, contributing to job opportunities in the community.
“Lands being used for Dawhenya Irrigation were acquired by the state through executive instrument EI 132 of 1977 and remain government lands, which GIDA has been protecting despite the threat from encroachment.”
“The Dawhenya Irrigation Scheme has two hundred smallholder rice farmers and private commercial farmers producing flowers for the international market and providing indirect jobs to over a thousand people,” it stated.
GIDA assured the public of its commitment to safe dam operations, routine maintenance, and major rehabilitation works, including funding from the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA).
“We have also been doing routine and annual maintenance on the dam and irrigation infrastructure. Major rehabilitation works with funding from the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) have been undertaken,” it added.
The authority encourages open communication with the local community and pledges to ensure sustainable and safe irrigation schemes nationwide.
“GIDA is dedicated to ensuring the sustainable and safe operation of irrigation schemes across the country. We appreciate the public’s understanding and support in disseminating accurate information about the Dawhenya Irrigation Scheme and its spillage structure,” it added.