MP Samuel Okudzato Ablakwa Criticizes President Akufo-Addo’s Response to Akosombo Dam Spillage Victims
Samuel Okudzato Ablakwa, Member of Parliament for the North Tongu constituency in the Volta region, has slammed President Akufo-Addo for his perceived lack of solidarity with the victims of the Akosombo Dam spillage.
Last year, thousands of residents across approximately 13 constituencies along the lower Volta basin were displaced and suffered property damage due to excessive spillage from the Akosombo Dam.
Mr. Ablakwa questioned the president’s compassion and empathy during the debate on the 2024 State of the Nation Address (SONA).
Communities Affected by Lower Volta Basin Spillage Experience Power Cuts, Flooding, and Displacement
Numerous communities along the lower Volta Basin are grappling with the aftermath of extensive water spillage, leading to widespread power outages, submerged homes, and displaced individuals facing food shortages.
The overflow from the dams has caused lagoons in the Keta basin to overflow, resulting in flooding in communities within the Anlo and Keta districts. Among the affected establishments are renowned hospitality facilities like Villa Cisneros, Sogakope Beach Resort and Spa, and Holy Trinity Spa and Health Farm.
The flooding prompted the evacuation of at least 25 nurses from the nurses’ quarters at the Comboni District Hospital in Sogakope.
This recent spillage is not an isolated incident, as similar exercises have been conducted in the past, dating back to 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1974, 1991, and the most recent in 2010. These measures were undertaken by the Volta River Authority (VRA) to prevent water overtopping the dam.
To address the impact of such events, the VRA established the Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPP).
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He also demanded transparency and accountability regarding the approximately GH¢2.5 million fund provided by ECOWAS to assist in addressing the challenges faced by the victims of the Akosombo Dam spillage.
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Story by: Osei Akoto(Teacher Kojo) #Ahotoronline.com
