Government steps up flood response, urges public to cooperate

The Ghanaian government is escalating its response to severe flooding that has inundated parts of Accra, Tema, and nearby communities after days of relentless rain. Minister for Works, Housing and Water Resources, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, stated that efforts are being intensified to manage the crisis.

Following an inspection of affected areas with President John Dramani Mahama and the Anti Flood Task Force, Adjei noted that the visit helped assess the flood causes and necessary measures. He acknowledged the significant pain, disruption, and economic hardship faced by households, traders, and businesses due to the sustained heavy rainfall since June 27, which has flooded homes, businesses, and infrastructure, particularly in low-lying areas.

Adjei highlighted that while climate change contributes to extreme weather, human actions such as constructing on waterways, discarding waste in drains, and disregarding planning regulations have exacerbated the flooding. He stressed that combating floods requires a united front involving government bodies, local authorities, traditional leaders, businesses, and residents.

The Ministry, in collaboration with various agencies including the Ghana Hydrological Authority and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), has deployed emergency response teams. Ongoing efforts include providing relief items, assessing damage, and clearing drains. The government also plans to intensify operations against illegal structures blocking drainage systems and will commence extensive desilting and excavation of major drains, alongside constructing new channels and rehabilitating existing infrastructure.

The Minister urged residents in flood-prone areas near rivers, lagoons, and drains to relocate to safer grounds when necessary and to avoid walking or driving through floodwaters. He emphasized the need for collective action to mitigate future flooding.

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We fully appreciate the pain, disruption, and economic hardship that these events will impose on households, traders, transport operators, and businesses.