Eastern regional minister suspends Koforidua china mall project

The Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, has ordered the temporary suspension of the ongoing China Mall construction project in Koforidua over concerns about poor drainage and flood control measures in the area.

The directive follows persistent complaints from residents in nearby communities, who say recent heavy rains have worsened flooding and waterlogging around the construction site, raising fears over the safety of lives and property.

Residents believe the project could further compound the drainage situation if urgent interventions are not carried out before work continues.

Speaking during a site inspection, the minister expressed dissatisfaction with what she described as the developers’ failure to comply with earlier directives aimed at improving drainage infrastructure around the project area.

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According to her, authorities would not allow any development that threatens surrounding communities during the rainy season.

In a post shared on Tiktok by eastern_rcc on Friday May 22, 2026, after the inspection, Rita Awatey stated that she had “directed a temporary halt to construction works” because the developers failed to address concerns raised by city authorities.

She stressed that the suspension would remain in force until the necessary corrective measures are fully implemented.

The minister further warned that government would continue to enforce environmental and safety regulations strictly, especially on projects located in flood-prone areas.

“We will continue to pursue all who have failed to fix the system until they comply,” she said, noting government’s determination to protect residents from avoidable flooding disasters.

Residents in parts of Koforidua have long complained about recurring floods during heavy downpours, with poor drainage systems frequently blamed for the situation.

The latest concerns surrounding the China Mall project have therefore heightened public anxiety, particularly among residents living close to the construction zone.

The issue also aligns with the minister’s broader commitment to improving sanitation and infrastructure across the Eastern Region.

Earlier this year, Rita Awatey assured residents that her administration would prioritise drainage improvement, sanitation, and urban development as part of efforts to address flooding and protect communities.

ANAS/EB

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