The Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Jinapor, has inaugurated a five-member committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding the flooding caused by the Akosombo Dam spillage in September 2023.
This move underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the environmental and socio-economic impact of the disaster while ensuring the safety and well-being of affected communities.
The committee, chaired by Ing. Kirk Koffi, has been tasked with assessing the events leading to the spillage, evaluating the response efforts, identifying affected areas, and recommending both immediate relief measures and long-term flood management strategies.
Speaking at the inauguration, Minister Jinapor highlighted the need for a comprehensive and coordinated response to mitigate the impact of such disasters.
“If there ought to be compensation, how does the government go about it?” he questioned, emphasizing the necessity of exploring compensation options for affected residents.
He further urged key stakeholders, including local authorities, community leaders, and environmental experts, to collaborate with the committee by providing essential information to aid their investigation.
The Minister also reaffirmed his full support for the committee’s work, stressing the importance of sustainable planning to prevent future occurrences.
In response, committee chairman Ing. Kirk Koffi expressed gratitude for the opportunity and assured the Minister of their dedication to delivering on their mandate.
Other members of the committee include Mr. Kwame Jantuah, Ing. Kofi Ellis, Ing. Kwaku Akosa, and Ms. Georgette Emefa Fugah, who will serve as secretary. The committee has been given one month to complete its work and submit its findings and recommendations to the government.
