The Volta River Authority (VRA) has recently announced plans to engage with relevant stakeholders about the potential spillage of excess water from the Akosombo Dam.
In a notice signed by Ing. Ken Arthur, VRA’s Deputy Chief Executive in Charge of Services, over 40 stakeholders, including the Minister for the Interior and all assemblies within the dam’s catchment areas, were informed of the imminent engagement process. This engagement aims to address the possibility of necessary water spillage from the dam.
“The Volta River Authority (VRA) intends to commence engagements regarding the potential controlled spillage of water from the Akosombo Dam. This precautionary measure is crucial to maintaining the structural integrity of the dam and ensuring the safety of our communities,” stated the notice.
The notice further elaborated, “We propose to engage you and the relevant team to discuss the potential implications, mitigative measures and information dissemination.”
On September 15, 2023, the VRA began releasing excess water from the Akosombo Dam, resulting in significant flooding in surrounding areas, particularly in the Lower Volta region. The controlled spillage continued until October 30, 2023, when VRA officially announced its conclusion.
Government figures indicate that the flooding impacted over 88,000 people and damaged more than 5,000 homes. In response, Citi FM and Channel One TV, along with their audiences, initiated efforts to build resettlement and health centers for those affected.
The government also announced a GH¢220 million compensation package for the victims. During his 67th Independence Day speech in Koforidua on March 6, 2023, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo mentioned that GH¢80 million of this amount had already been disbursed. However, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, disputed the president’s claim regarding the GH¢80 million disbursement.
This ongoing engagement and support effort underscore the importance of collaborative measures to address the challenges posed by the Akosombo Dam’s water spillage and ensure the well-being of affected communities.
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