Torrential rains have left Abofu, a suburb of Achimota in Accra, devastated as floodwaters inundated homes, destroyed properties, and highlighted the consequences of poor drainage infrastructure.
Residents of Abofu Achimota are reeling from the effects of severe flooding after days of heavy downpour swept through the community, submerging homes and destroying valuable items.
The flooding has been blamed largely on choked gutters and incomplete drainage systems started by the previous administration.
“The water came in like a river. Within minutes, my room was flooded and I lost everything — my furniture, my documents, even my children’s school materials,” said Mavis Anane, a resident whose home was affected.
The New Patriotic Party (NPP), while in government, had initiated a major drainage project to mitigate such disasters.
However, construction was halted following the party’s loss in the December 7, 2024 elections. The National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration has since taken up the project.
“We didn’t want to play politics with the lives of the people. That’s why we made it a priority to continue what our predecessors started,” said a spokesperson from the Ministry of Works and Housing, who asked not to be named.
As Ghana enters the peak of its rainy season, communities across the country are reporting similar incidents, with property loss and displacement on the rise.
Hon. Theresa Awuni, Member of Parliament for the Okaikwei North Constituency, visited the affected areas and expressed her deep concern.
“What we have witnessed is tragic, but it is also a reminder of why we must complete the drainage projects. I’ve engaged the contractors and urged them to expedite work so that we can ensure the safety of our people,” she said during a community meeting.
Contractors have resumed work following the latest downpours, which halted activity temporarily.
Engineer Kwame Mensah, who leads the project, confirmed, “We’re back on site and committed to finishing this drainage system. Once done, it will significantly reduce the flooding in Abofu.”
In response to the disaster, local authorities and experts are recommending a series of prevention and safety measures:
Desilting and Maintenance: Regular desilting of gutters and drainage channels to prevent blockages.
Waste Management: Public education on proper waste disposal to avoid dumping garbage in drains.
Early Warning Systems: Implementation of localized flood alerts and community warning systems.
Safe Construction Practices: Enforcement of building regulations to prevent construction on waterways or flood-prone areas.
Emergency Preparedness: Residents are encouraged to have emergency kits and evacuation plans in place.
Community Clean-Up Campaigns: Local leaders are organizing monthly clean-up exercises to keep gutters clear.
Meanwhile, residents are calling for both immediate relief and long-term planning. “We can’t go through this every year,” said local assemblyman Michael Opoku. “We need a permanent solution.”
As construction resumes and political cooperation continues, the people of Abofu are hoping this year’s disaster will mark the beginning of a more resilient future.
Story Written By Bernard Quaye & Maame Sarfowaa | Kobby Kyei News
