Ing. Edward Ekow Obeng-Kenzo, VRA Deputy Chief Executive Officer
The Volta River Authority (VRA) says power and water supply have been restored Mepe and Aveyime, communities in the Volta Region that have been inundated by the flood waters due to the spillage from the Akosombo dam.
With the support of the Ministry of Energy, over 5,000 solar lamps have also been distributed to various safe havens, and together with the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), power supply has been reconnected to the St. Kizito haven.
Updating the nation on the government’s relief efforts after the dam spillage during a press briefing yesterday in Accra, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Authority, Ing. Edward Ekow Obeng-Kenzo, disclosed that his outfit had been deeply concerned about the welfare of affected residents and has taken appropriate steps to safeguard their lives while returning them to normalcy.
“This accomplishment signifies a step forward in our mission to alleviate the difficulties faced by the residents. We understand the essential role electricity and water play in everyday life, and we are dedicated to ensuring that basic amenities are reinstated for the affected families,” he said.
Mr Obeng-Kenzo noted that although food, drugs, tents, potable water, improved sanitation and other essential items had been distributed to the affected residents, VRA together with the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) would continue to do more to expand the enumeration of the victims.
Spillage
On the spillage, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer disclosed that it was necessitated by high inflows into the Akosombo reservoir, resulting in the water level exceeding its upper level.
As a result, the VRA had to spill excess water to prevent it from overtopping and compromising the integrity of the dam adding that the ongoing controlled spilling is based on sound engineering analysis and judgment, as well as fidelity to statutory requirements.
“In line with international best practices, we made the best of preparations to ensure that lives are preserved no matter the situation. This is the reason why we carried out simulations and annual stakeholder engagements before the spill programme this year,” he said.
Expressing satisfaction that no life had been lost in the process, Mr Obeng-Kenzo said his outfit was determined to ensure that “under the current circumstances, no one is left behind. We will never leave you alone.”
He also expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, including NADMO, the Ministry of Energy, the Ghana Armed Forces, the Ministry of Health, and all those who have contributed to providing relief to the affected communities.
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