Akosombo Dam Spillage: Committee submits 12 key recommendations to prevent future disasters

A five-member presidential committee has submitted a report to President John Dramani Mahama. The report outlines recommendations to address the damage from the 2023 dam spillages in Akosombo and Kpong. It is a comprehensive 110-page document delivered on May 7, 2025, through Energy Minister John Abdulai Jinapor. This follows two months of investigations into the incident.

The Volta River Authority (VRA) conducted controlled spillages from the dams between September 15 and October 30, 2023. They cited dangerously high water levels as the reason for this action. The floods displaced nearly 40,000 people and caused extensive damage across the Volta Region. Areas particularly affected include North Tongu, Central Tongu, South Tongu, Ada, and Kpong.

The spillage destroyed 1,247 homes, 94 schools, and 17 health facilities. Agricultural losses are estimated at $78 million. Emergency response efforts were coordinated by VRA and NADMO with government support.

In his national address marking his first four months in office, President Mahama confirmed that compensation payments to victims are underway. He pledged to create an action plan based on the committee’s findings focused on prevention and long-term support for victims.

The committee was inaugurated on March 13, 2025. It was chaired by Ing. Kirk Koffi and included several other members.

Here are some key recommendations from the committee:

1. Controlled Spillage Floodplain: Designate a floodplain for future controlled spillages to minimize impact.

2. Emergency Preparedness: Regularly update disaster preparedness plans locally using user-friendly formats.

3. Political Collaboration: Create a task force with local leaders to enhance disaster preparedness.

4. Communication Improvement: Establish clear channels for timely information about flood risks.

5. Funding for NADMO: Provide adequate funding for district assemblies and emergency response centers.

6. Localized Emergency Plans: Organize drills to practice emergency procedures in districts lacking plans.

7. Community Engagement: Improve education programs about flood risks in schools and communities.

8. Engineering Solutions: Implement engineering solutions along catchment areas to manage floods better.

9. Floodplain Delineation: Enhance vegetative cover in floodplains using identifiable plantations or structures.

10. Safe Havens Management: Develop multipurpose structures that can serve as safe havens during emergencies.