Bagre Dam spillage kills farmer in North East Region
The spillage of the Bagre Dam has once again brought tragedy to Ghana, claiming the life of a 55-year-old farmer, Baba Takwara, in the North East Region.
Takwara drowned in the White Volta River on the evening of Monday, August 25, 2025, while farming near the Yama community, close to Walewale.
Originally from Kpasenkpe, he had been harvesting crops with ten other men when he decided to step away to fetch water and food. He never returned.
Jacob Nluki, Assembly Member for the Kpasenkpe Traditional Area, confirmed the incident and explained that rising water levels from the Bagre Dam spillage contributed to the drowning.
“The river had swollen beyond its usual limits. He likely underestimated the danger and was swept away,” Mr. Nluki said.
After a brief search, Takwara’s body was found and later buried in line with Islamic customs.
The Bagre Dam in Burkina Faso plays a vital role in regional water management.
Still, its annual release, especially during the rainy season, often causes flooding in parts of northern Ghana.
These floods damage crops, displace families, and increase the risk of waterborne diseases.
Just days before the incident, Burkina Faso’s national electricity company, SONABEL, warned of the imminent spillage.
Takwara’s death is a stark reminder of the danger communities face each year.