Assin Ochiso: One dead, 4 hospitalised after river crossing in search of avocado

A journey for avocados turned tragic in Assin Ochiso on May 6, 2025. Five children set out on a canoe across the Ochi River. One child died, and four others were hospitalized.

The children aimed to reach the Amoanda community to harvest avocados. A nine-year-old boy from Amoanda paddled the canoe. He was accompanied by three siblings and a friend.

Midway through their trip, the paddler felt overwhelmed by the canoe's weight. The canoe became unstable, prompting four children to swim to safety. A six-year-old remained in the canoe.

In a brave effort, 12-year-old Kojo Adu helped three children reach safety. Tragically, he drowned shortly after saving them. His body was found later beneath the water.

Kojo was pronounced dead at the Assin Ochiso health facility. The other four children, aged six to nine, were rescued and taken to hospital for treatment.

Community members quickly responded to help the survivors. Eyewitnesses reported that Kojo made a desperate attempt to save everyone before being swept away by the current.

The only route from Assin Ochiso to Amoanda is by canoe across the river. The parents of Kojo Adu expressed deep shock and grief over their loss. They urged local authorities for safer crossing options.

They called on Rev. John Ntim Fordjour and Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson to prioritize building a footbridge over the Ochi River. Other residents supported this request, highlighting dangers of relying on canoes for travel.

A footbridge would provide a safer way for children and families between communities.