Ghana’s perennial struggle with flooding, particularly in its capital city, Accra, is set to be tackled head-on with a renewed approach that prioritizes decisive action. The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), under the leadership of Director-General Dr. Joseph Bikanyi Kuyon, has announced a comprehensive strategy that includes the demolition of unauthorized structures obstructing waterways. This initiative acknowledges the difficult choices necessary to mitigate the devastating impacts of flooding and safeguard communities nationwide. Dr. Kuyon emphasized that while the process may involve some discomfort and displeasure for those affected, the safety and well-being of the broader population must take precedence. The restoration of natural water flow is paramount, requiring a combination of halting illegal landfilling, dredging critical channels, and removing structures encroaching upon these crucial drainage systems.
The core of NADMO’s strategy revolves around restoring the ecological balance disrupted by human activity. The filling of water bodies and the construction of structures within their natural boundaries have fundamentally altered the flow of water, increasing the risk and severity of flooding. By dredging these areas and removing obstructing structures, NADMO aims to reinstate the natural function of these waterways, allowing them to effectively manage water flow and mitigate flood risks. This approach recognizes the interconnectedness of the ecosystem and emphasizes the importance of respecting natural processes to avoid further detrimental consequences for communities. The director-general underscored the urgency of this action, highlighting the potential suffering that will continue if the disturbed ecosystem is not restored.
While Accra often dominates the national conversation on flooding due to the scale and visibility of the problem, Dr. Kuyon clarified that the issue extends beyond the capital, impacting various regions across the country. The focus on Accra stems from the magnitude of the challenge it faces, but the overarching strategy aims to address flooding nationwide. This broader perspective underscores the importance of a comprehensive national approach that considers the unique challenges and vulnerabilities of different regions. The planned interventions, including dredging and demolitions, are intended to be implemented strategically across affected areas, ensuring a targeted and effective response to flooding across Ghana.
NADMO seeks to assure the public that the process of demolition will not be arbitrary or indiscriminate. Dr. Kuyon emphasized the role of technical expertise in guiding these decisions. Qualified engineers and technocrats will form an integral part of the demolition team, providing expert assessment and advice. Their involvement ensures a scientific and objective approach to identifying structures that genuinely pose a significant flood risk. This technical assessment will prioritize the removal of structures that critically obstruct waterways and contribute to flooding. Wherever possible, alternative solutions, such as redirecting water flow without impacting private property, will be explored and implemented.
This measured and technically informed approach aims to balance the need for decisive action with respect for individual property rights. By prioritizing structures that significantly contribute to flooding, NADMO aims to minimize disruption while maximizing the impact of its interventions. This balanced approach seeks to gain public trust and cooperation, ensuring that the efforts to mitigate flooding are seen as fair, necessary, and ultimately beneficial for all communities. The organization acknowledges the potential impact on affected individuals and emphasizes its commitment to a just and transparent process.
The overarching goal of NADMO’s intensified efforts is to establish a more resilient and sustainable approach to flood management in Ghana. Recognizing the limitations of reactive measures, the organization is prioritizing proactive interventions that address the root causes of flooding. By restoring the natural function of water bodies and removing obstructions, NADMO aims to create a more robust and sustainable system capable of managing water flow effectively. This long-term vision emphasizes the importance of working in harmony with natural processes to mitigate flood risks and ensure the safety and well-being of communities across Ghana. This proactive approach signals a shift from crisis management to a more sustainable and resilient model of flood management, ultimately aiming to minimize the recurring impact of floods on communities nationwide.
