DONATIONS TO THE VICTIMS OF AKOSOMBO DAM SPILLAGE AT MEPE

The Gaming Commission of Ghana on November 12, 2023, undertook a donation exercise in response to the unfortunate incident of the Akosombo Dam spillage. This tragedy resulted in severe consequences for the residents in Mepe and its surrounding towns, causing destruction to infrastructure, homes, and affecting the livelihoods of the residents.

The Director of Finance and Administration, Sena Dake led the Gaming Commission\’s on team on behalf of the Games Commissioner Mr. Peter Mireku, to Mepe to express empathy and donate essential items, including rice, drinks, home wares and clothing, to address the immediate needs of the victims. In her statement, Ms.Sena Dake highlighted the Commission\’s focus on sustaining livelihoods and restoring normalcy for the affected residents.

The total value of the donated items amounted to GHC40,000 a testament to the Commission\’s commitment to providing meaningful support during times of crisis.

The items were received by North Tongu District Chief Executive (DCE), Mr. Osborn Kwadzo Fenu, who expressed gratitude on behalf of the victims. He appealed to other corporate organizations to extend their support, emphasizing the need for additional assistance as existing stocks were depleted.

While the floodwaters have significantly receded, visible marks on the walls of houses indicate the extent of the damage. Some affected buildings remain inhabitable, and victims are being sheltered at St. Kizito SHS and some other safe havens within the district.

During the visit, the Mankralo of Mepe, Togbe Korsi Nego expressed his concerns over the Volta River Authority\’s role in the disaster. He urged the VRA to take preventative measures and called on the government to establish a committee to investigate and sanction the VRA officials responsible for the displacement of over 13,000 residents. The Mankralo dismissed reports of residents being engaged to evacuate ahead of the spillage and emphasized the need for accountability.

The Akosombo Dam spillage led to the submersion of Mepe and adjacent areas, causing extensive damage to farms, poultry shelters, residences, hospitals, and social centers. During our visit, the Chief of Mepe, Mankralo Tobge Korsi Nego, emphasized that this occurrence could have been prevented with due diligence from the Volta River Authority (VRA). He urged the VRA to take immediate measures to prevent such incidents in the future.