Mepe Development Association Solicit Aid For Flood Victims Of Dam Spillage

The Mepe Development Association (MDA) is appealing to the general public for aid for flood victims in the North, Central, and South Tongu Districts of the Volta Region.

The call for assistance comes in response to the recent overflow of the Volta River, caused by the spillage of excess water from the Akosombo and Kpong Dams operated by the Volta River Authority (VRA).

A statement issued by chairman of the Association, Kojo Mawulenu Fabian on October 13, 2023, states “The severe flooding has resulted in the submersion of several homes, with properties worth millions destroyed, and many residents left homeless. Among the hardest-hit areas is Mepe, where the impact of the disaster has been particularly devastating.”

The statement further noted that “As the floodwaters continue to rise, a looming health crisis has emerged due to the flooding of toilet facilities and refuse dumps. The Volta River itself has been heavily contaminated, leaving those who depend on its water for various domestic uses stranded. Furthermore, the disruption of pipe-borne water services and widespread power outages have further compounded the dire situation.”

The MDA has therefore called on the government and relevant agencies to accelerate relief efforts and provide essential assistance.

“Food supplies, sachets and bottles of drinking water, temporary accommodation facilities, medical interventions, and clothing are among the immediate needs to alleviate the plight of the affected communities,” they pleaded with individuals, organizations, and other concerned parties who are willing to contribute to the relief efforts.

“The downstream communities have been experiencing varied forms of ecological, economic, health, and social crises since the construction of the Akosombo and Kpong Dams. We feel that this is too much a price to pay for our sacrifice to power the nation,” Mr. Fabian lamented.

The MDA further demanded that in the medium to long term, state agencies responsible for resolving the ongoing problems in these communities engage with the affected people to find a “people-centered solution to the enduring crises.”

The Association nonetheless, commended the communal spirit and support shown by the youth and volunteers who have been saving lives and salvaging properties. They emphasized the importance of solidarity and urged everyone to continue supporting each other in these difficult times.

“Let us continue to be each other’s keeper and keep faith alive. We shall overcome,” the statement concluded.