Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has urged the Ministry of Works and Housing to step up public education efforts aimed at discouraging construction in waterways and flood-prone zones. She voiced serious concern over the recurring floods in Accra and other parts of the country, highlighting the extensive damage they inflict on lives, homes, and public infrastructure each year.
During a working visit to the ministry, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang acknowledged that demolishing houses built in waterways can be distressing, but stressed that the consequences of failing to act are far more catastrophic.
The Vice President noted that flooding has become an annual occurrence, yet the cycle persists despite repeated lamentations. She acknowledged that some decisions may be unpopular but emphasised their necessity. “It is never pleasant to see a house demolished, but it is a far greater tragedy when families are swept away by floodwaters,” she remarked.
She urged the ministry to intensify its communication efforts so that citizens fully appreciate the risks of building in unauthorised areas. The Vice President underscored that proactive public engagement, coupled with strict enforcement of planning regulations, is vital to curbing the recurring floods that continue to devastate many communities.
Source: Sarah Appiah
