Committee faults VRA, NADMO in Akosombo flood disaster

A five-member committee appointed by President John Dramani Mahama has submitted its findings on the 2023 Akosombo Dam spillage. The report highlights major issues in disaster preparedness and coordination.

Presented on May 7, 2025, the report calls for urgent reforms. These reforms aim to improve Ghana’s response to future emergencies.

The Volta River Authority (VRA) began a controlled spillage from the Akosombo and Kpong Dams. This occurred between September 15 and October 30, 2023, due to high water levels.

While this action prevented structural failure, it caused severe flooding. Over 38,000 residents were displaced in Mepe, Battor, Sogakope, Kpong, and Ada.

The committee linked the devastation to climate-induced rainfall and weak local planning. It also noted poor communication among key stakeholders as a significant issue.

Although the VRA had an Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPP), some officials did not follow it. District Chief Executives and Members of Parliament failed to align with evacuation strategies. This affected relief efforts significantly.

On September 18, 2023, the dam recorded a water inflow of 477,984 cubic feet per second. This was one of the highest levels in years. Approximately 8 million acre-feet of water were released over 46 days. While this amount was lower than in 1968, future events may exceed it due to climate change.

Several challenges were identified:

- Lack of local disaster plans and evacuation resources.
- Communication breakdowns and public mistrust.
- Resistance to relocation due to cultural ties.
- Inadequate compensation for victims from previous dam construction.

Some victims are still living in tents. They decline relocation offers due to privacy concerns and distance from their homes.

Certain communities have rejected government resettlement projects. They feel these projects do not reflect their needs or involve proper consultation.

The committee made several recommendations:

- Enhance local emergency response plans and simulations.
- Strengthen coordination among stakeholders.
- Review land-use policies around the dam basin.
- Implement inclusive resettlement strategies with adequate resources.
- Accelerate compensation for affected households.

President Mahama acknowledged the report during his address after 120 days in office. He confirmed that compensation for affected communities is being processed. A detailed government action plan based on these findings will be released soon.