President Akufo-Addo visits flood-hit areas and promises support for victims

President Akufo-Addo's visit to the flood-hit areas in Ghana and his promises of support and relief for the affected people

 President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on Monday, October 16, 2023, toured some of the areas affected by the recent floods caused by the spillage of the Bagre Dam in Burkina Faso and the heavy rains in the lower Volta basin. He visited the districts of North Tongu, South Tongu and Central Tongu in the Volta Region, where he met with the traditional leaders, local authorities and the affected communities.

The President expressed his sympathy and solidarity with the people who have lost their lives, properties and livelihoods due to the floods. He assured them that the government will do everything in its power to assist them and mitigate the impact of the disaster.

He said that the government, through the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), has already provided some relief items such as food, water, mattresses, blankets, mosquito nets and tents to the victims. He added that NADMO will continue to distribute more items to meet the needs of the affected people.

He also said that the government, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and the Office of the President, will work out a long-term plan to support the farmers whose crops have been destroyed by the floods. He said that the government will provide them with seeds, fertilizers and other inputs to help them recover from their losses and resume their farming activities.

The President also announced that the government will construct a permanent resettlement centre at Mepe, where some of the displaced people are currently being sheltered. He said that the centre will have facilities such as schools, clinics, markets and recreational areas to make life comfortable for the residents.

The President urged the people to cooperate with the government and follow the safety measures issued by NADMO. He also advised them to avoid building or farming on flood-prone areas to prevent future disasters.

He said that he came to visit them not because of politics, but because of his duty as the President of all Ghanaians. He said that he took an oath to protect every citizen of Ghana, regardless of their political affiliation or ethnic background. He said that he wants them to understand that the government is acting for all Ghanaians and that he cares for their welfare.

The President was accompanied by some ministers, members of parliament and other government officials. He thanked the traditional leaders and the local authorities for their cooperation and support in dealing with the situation. He also commended NADMO and other agencies for their swift response and intervention.

The President's visit was well received by the people, who expressed their gratitude and appreciation for his concern and assistance. They also appealed to him to expedite the construction of the resettlement centre and address other challenges facing their communities.

Sources: GBC Ghana Online, YouTube, Graphic Online