Post flood mitigation programme: GAF to lead nationwide clean-up and demolition exercise

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) will spearhead a nationwide clean-up and demolition exercise to address the aftermath of devastating floods, particularly targeting structures that obstruct waterways and endanger public safety. This initiative, directed by civil authorities, will be conducted in accordance with applicable laws.

Brigadier General Forster Okae-Yeboah, Director General of Joint Operations at GAF and leader of the National Post-Flood Mitigation Task Force, urged owners and occupiers of properties in waterways and environmentally sensitive areas to cooperate. The exercise follows a severe flood on June 28, partly blamed on construction in drainage paths.

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Owners and occupiers of structures located within waterways, drainage reservations and other environmentally sensitive areas are further urged to cooperate with the relevant authorities to facilitate the execution of this critical national assignment.

The operation will focus on restoring safety, enhancing sanitation, and preventing outbreaks of diseases like cholera and typhoid. Beyond demolishing illegal structures, the GAF will clear refuse, silt, fallen trees, abandoned vehicles, and debris from roads, bridges, and waterways. Specialized equipment and personnel will be deployed to clear major drains and rivers.

Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies are also tasked with leading local clean-up efforts to complement the GAF's national operation. The public is advised of potential temporary traffic diversions and restricted access during the works. Brigadier General Okae-Yeboah assured that the exercise will be conducted professionally and humanely, emphasizing the need for collective effort from government, authorities, security services, the private sector, civil society, and citizens to build a more resilient Ghana.

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The success of this exercise depends on the collective efforts of Government, local authorities, the security services, the private sector, civil society organisations and every citizen. It is through this shared effort that we will restore our communities, protect lives and build a cleaner, safer and more resilient Ghana.