Gov’t has allocated lands to resettle Akosombo Dam spillage victims – Minister insists

The Volta regional minister, Dr Archibald Yao Letsa, has said that the government’s inter-ministerial committee on the recent Akosombo dam spillage disaster in the Lower Volta basin has identified lands for resettlement of the displaced inhabitants in the affected communities.

The dam spillage made life unbearable for thousands of locals in the three Tongu districts of the region, primarily children and older people.

At least 31,000 individuals in nine districts were displaced after excess water was spilt from the Akosombo and Kpong dams. The displaced individuals sought refuge in public schools, migrated to nearby communities, or stayed with relatives and friends.

Homes, schools, businesses, farms, and shops remained submerged for over a month, with the floodwaters only recently receding in the affected communities.

Many affected residents have raised concerns over the Volta River Authority (VRA) and the government’s inability to resettle them swiftly.

Addressing the press in Ho, Dr Letsa said that the government had concluded the resettlement proceedings, with specific lands allocated for development in the Mepe and New-Bakpa areas.

“We’ve identified some places in New Bakpa and some places in Mepe for the resettlement,” the minister confirmed.

He further mentioned that international bodies and non-governmental organizations are collaborating with the government to realize the resettlement project.

“We’re receiving support from the United Nations and other organizations, including the private sector, the construction sector, and other organizations that are assisting us.”

The education of children in the affected communities suffered significantly. However, Dr Letsa assured us that the government has addressed educational challenges, stating, “Almost all the children are back in school.”

For many residents in the Tongu enclave of the region affected by the flood, the disaster damaged more than the relief items they received, and the scars will never be forgotten.