Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Member of Parliament for North Tongu, has called on parliament to hasten its investigation into the spillage of the Akosombo and Kpong dams, which led to the displacement of approximately 30,000 people last year.
Despite the pressing nature of the issue, parliament has yet to form a committee to address the matter. With the rainy season intensifying, there are growing concerns about the potential for another spillage. Ablakwa has emphasized the need for swift action, urging the house to prioritize the issue.
"The motion has been admitted by the Speaker, and we have debated it. The only step remaining is to establish the committees. I remind the leadership every week, as they keep assuring us that they will meet with the Speaker to form the committees," Ablakwa stated. "The intelligence suggests that another spillage is likely soon. We haven’t learned from past experiences, and no recommendations have been made. Mr. Speaker, it is essential that we get this committee working."
In October 2023, a controlled release of water from the Akosombo Dam was necessary to prevent an overflow, leading to the displacement of residents in low-lying areas. The North and Central Tongu districts were hit the hardest, with over 35,857 people affected and numerous homes and farmlands destroyed.
The flooding severely impacted the North Tongu district, leaving more than 30,000 individuals in urgent need of assistance from both the government and charitable organizations.