President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated his government's commitment to compensating victims of the Akosombo Dam spillage that occurred in September 2023. The incident resulted in significant property damage, displacement, and disruption of livelihoods for residents in the Lower Volta Basin.
During a "Thank You" tour in the Volta Region on January 24, 2025, President Mahama addressed the issue, stating that his administration will take steps to prevent future occurrences. He emphasized, "We will also ensure that victims of the Akosombo Dam spillage are adequately compensated and that measures are taken to prevent such in the future."
This commitment follows the allocation of GH¢220 million in the 2024 budget to support relief efforts for communities affected by the spillage and related floods in the Oti, Savannah, and Bono-East regions. Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta further detailed the government's response, noting that funding has been sought from the World Bank's IDA Crisis Response Window (CRW) to aid in the resettlement of victims, restoration of livelihoods, compensation, and infrastructure reconstruction.
While the government's financial commitment is substantial, the issue has also attracted legal attention. In October 2024, North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announced plans for legal action to ensure all victims receive compensation. Ablakwa stated his intention to pursue the matter until all affected individuals are duly compensated, highlighting the government's perceived inaction and neglect of the affected communities' needs. He emphasized his constituents' concerns, stating, "We shall not forsake them, we shall not abandon them. All the victims of the [Volta River Authority] VRA’s spillage, we will not rest until every single one of them is fully compensated."
President Mahama's recent pledge, coupled with the budgetary allocation and the World Bank funding request, signals a concerted effort by the government to address the situation. However, the ongoing legal action underscores the urgency and importance of ensuring timely and equitable compensation for all those affected by the Akosombo Dam spillage. The situation remains a significant concern, demanding continued monitoring and transparent action from all stakeholders.
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