Akosombo Dam Spillage: Here are 15 key points by govt’s Committee

A five-member investigative committee, appointed by President John Dramani Mahama, has submitted a report on the 2023 Akosombo Dam spillage. The report highlights failures in disaster preparedness and calls for urgent policy reforms.

The committee presented its findings on May 7, 2025. It pointed out significant issues in flood mitigation planning and coordination. The Volta River Authority (VRA) conducted controlled spillage from the Akosombo and Kpong dams between September 15 and October 30, 2023. This was due to dangerously high water levels threatening the dams' integrity.

While the spillage was necessary, it caused severe flooding along the Volta River. An estimated 38,624 people were displaced from their homes. Affected towns included Mepe, Battor, Sogakope Mafi, Adidome, Kpong, and Ada. Victims lost homes, livelihoods, and access to basic services.

The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and VRA coordinated emergency responses. The government distributed relief items to affected areas but recognized a need for a stronger national disaster strategy. In his address marking his first 120 days in office, President Mahama acknowledged ongoing hardships for victims. He confirmed that compensation is being processed with initial payments expected soon.

The government plans to release an action plan based on the committee’s recommendations. This report aims to improve accountability and enhance community resilience against future disasters.

Key findings regarding the spillage include:

1. Water spillage factors include reservoir elevation and rainfall.
2. The Akosombo Dam recorded a maximum inflow of 477,984 cubic feet per second on September 18.
3. The spill occurred between September 15 and October 30 with approximately 8 Million Acre Feet discharged.
4. Historical data shows that past spills have been larger than in 2023.
5. Spillage was necessary to prevent dam destruction due to high water levels.
6. VRA’s Emergency Preparedness Plan outlines roles for all stakeholders during emergencies.
7. Communication gaps hindered effective response efforts among various agencies.
8. Local disaster preparedness plans were lacking during the emergency response.
9. Community members faced challenges such as economic reliance on their locations.
10. Some affected individuals remain in tents without adequate shelter or privacy.