President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans for a nationwide exercise to clear major drainage channels as part of efforts to tackle Ghana’s recurring flooding problem.
The announcement came after the President toured several flood-hit communities to assess the extent of the damage caused by recent heavy rains. During the visit, he stressed the need for urgent and coordinated action to remove obstacles preventing the free flow of water across the country.
According to President Mahama, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), working alongside the Ministry of Works, Housing and Water Resources, will be directed to identify structures and other obstructions blocking drains and waterways within their jurisdictions. These impediments will be marked for removal to improve drainage systems and reduce the risk of future flooding.
The President said the initiative forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen flood prevention measures and protect vulnerable communities from the devastating effects of heavy rainfall.
In addition, President Mahama has instructed the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) to step up its response efforts in communities affected by the recent floods. He said the agency has been tasked with identifying victims, assessing the scale of damage and providing immediate support to those in need.
The directive is expected to accelerate relief efforts and ensure that affected families receive assistance in the coming days as recovery operations continue.
President Mahama also urged Ghanaians to play their part in addressing the underlying causes of flooding, noting that lasting solutions will require a shared commitment between government institutions and the public.
He maintained that while government will continue investing in drainage infrastructure and flood-control measures, public cooperation is equally essential in preventing activities that contribute to blocked waterways and environmental degradation.
The President’s announcement comes as several parts of Accra and other communities continue to grapple with the aftermath of severe flooding triggered by torrential rains over the weekend.
