Mahama Announces Review of Flood Measures After Devastating Rains
President says government is assessing new interventions after recent floods exposed challenges in existing mitigation measures
- Flood measures reviewed after recent devastating floods.
- New interventions planned to strengthen flood control.
- Mahama blames climate change and encroachment on waterways
President John Dramani Mahama says the government is reviewing existing flood prevention measures and considering further interventions following the devastating floods that hit several parts of Ghana.
Speaking at a National Security meeting on the aftermath of the disaster, the President said the review is aimed at improving Ghana’s response to increasing flooding caused by climate change, heavy rainfall, and rapid urban expansion.
He noted that while flooding has become a recurring challenge in the country, the recent floods were among the most severe Ghana has experienced, partly due to the intensity of rainfall.
According to President Mahama, urban growth, particularly in Accra, has worsened the situation as some waterways and flood retention areas have been encroached upon for construction.
He explained that the rising demand for land has led to developments in areas originally reserved for water flow and containment.
The President said the Ghana Armed Forces, the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), and other state agencies have been deployed to support flood mitigation and provide relief to affected communities.
He added that government had already formed a task force before the floods to undertake preventive measures, including dredging of waterways, but the volume of rainfall recorded overwhelmed existing interventions.
To support further mitigation efforts, President Mahama disclosed that the Finance Minister has released funds from the contingency fund to finance additional flood control works.
The announcement comes after government introduced a nationwide post-flood cleanup exercise in seven regions affected by the June 29 floods, which resulted in deaths and displaced thousands of residents.
The National General Cleaning Days scheduled for July 10 and 11 will focus on improving sanitation, clearing drains, and reducing the risk of future flooding.
President Mahama stressed that flooding cannot be completely eliminated but said stronger planning, improved infrastructure, and public cooperation can help reduce its impact on communities.
