The Minister of State-designate at the Energy Ministry, Herbert Krapah, has assured Parliament that the Volta River Authority (VRA) is implementing thorough measures to prevent future havoc from Akosombo Dam spillages.
Mr. Krapah cited that lessons have been learned from last year’s significant damage.
In October 2023, a controlled spillage of the Akosombo Dam was conducted to prevent overflow, leading to the displacement of residents in low-lying areas.
The most affected communities were in the North and Central Tongu districts.
According to authorities, over 35,857 people were displaced, while numerous homes and farmlands were destroyed.
Assuring the Appointments Committee of Parliament, Herbert Krapah said that the disaster would never happen again.
“VRA is going ahead with the stakeholder consultations and the sensitisations, and the ministry and central government will work closely with them to ensure that the programme that they have put in place to mitigate the impact of the spill, and also ensure the integrity of the dam will be executed, according to plan,” he stated.
In a notice signed by VRA’s Deputy Chief Executive for Services, Ken Arthur urged more than 40 stakeholders, including the Minister for the Interior and all local assemblies within the dam’s catchment areas, to prioritize the stakeholder engagement.
“The Volta River Authority (VRA) intends to commence engagements regarding the potential controlled spillage of water from the Akosombo Dam. This precautionary measure is crucial to maintaining the structural integrity of the dam and ensuring the safety of our communities,” the notice read.
It added, “We propose to engage you and the relevant team to discuss the potential implications, mitigative measures and information dissemination.”
Meanwhile, 10 months after the incident, hundreds of victims in North Tongu affected by the Akosombo Dam spillage are still awaiting full compensation from the government.
According to Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, many residents are still living in tents.
Farmers whose fields were destroyed and residents whose homes were submerged have yet to receive compensation.