The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has called on President John Dramani Mahama to take what it describes as “tough and decisive” steps to find lasting solutions to Ghana’s repeated flooding problems, warning that the situation has now become a serious public health concern.
In a statement signed by its President, Prof. Dr. (Med.) Ernest Yorke, and General Secretary, Dr. (Dent.) Richard Selormey, the Association said flooding continues to cause loss of lives, displace thousands of people, destroy property and livelihoods, disrupt transport systems, interrupt emergency medical services, and increase the risk of disease outbreaks.
“We urge the President to take tough and decisive decisions and actions that will bring significant and lasting solutions to the perennial flood situation in Accra and other communities,” the statement said.
The GMA noted that while Accra has long struggled with flooding, the problem is now affecting other parts of the country, including the Greater Accra, Central, Western and Volta regions.
It said the recurring floods are being driven by several factors, including poor and poorly maintained drainage systems, rapid urban growth, deforestation, climate change, poor waste management, building on waterways, illegal mining, political interference, weak enforcement of building and zoning laws, and limited public education.
The Association also pointed to the approval of illegal structures in flood-prone areas, lack of adequate funding and manpower for enforcement, weak legal penalties for offenders, and limited equipment for emergency response teams as contributing factors.
It called on the government to improve drainage systems through regular maintenance and expansion, strictly enforce land-use and building regulations, and increase public education on waste disposal, sanitation, and flood preparedness.
The GMA also urged stronger urban planning systems, better accountability in flood management, and removing political influence from decisions related to flood control.
It further said that officials who allow or support illegal construction in dangerous areas should be held responsible.
The Association also appealed for more investment in emergency response agencies such as the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), the Ghana National Fire Service, hospital emergency units, and the Department of Social Welfare to improve preparedness and response during disasters.
Finally, it advised people in flood prone areas to follow basic health precautions, including washing hands regularly with soap and clean water, drinking safe water, eating freshly prepared hot food, keeping surroundings clean, and seeking medical help quickly if they experience symptoms such as diarrhoea or other illnesses.
