Regional Minister urges collective action to tackle chronic floods in Accra

Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Obenewaa Ocloo, has emphasised that flood prevention is a shared responsibility and not the government’s burden alone.

She urged residents to support ongoing efforts to curb flooding across the region through strict adherence to environmental and safety regulations, particularly during the rainy season.

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Addressing a press conference on May 28, 2026, the minister stressed that the fight against flooding cannot be left to the government alone, urging residents to adopt responsible environmental practices and comply with safety directives issued by authorities.

“Flood prevention is not the responsibility of government alone. It requires collective discipline and active participation from all residents of the region," she stated.

Her comments come as several communities continue to deal with the effects of flooding caused by days of heavy rainfall, which have left homes submerged, displaced families and damaged infrastructure in parts of the capital.

Ocloo identified poor waste disposal practices as one of the major contributors to flooding in the region, noting that drains and waterways often become blocked with refuse, preventing the free flow of water during storms.

“I therefore wish to strongly urge the public to desist from dumping refuse into drains and waterways, avoid building on watercourses, and strictly comply with safety advisories issued by the authorities,” she said.

The minister also appealed to residents living in flood-prone areas to prioritise their safety during periods of intense rainfall, especially when warnings are issued by emergency authorities.

“Residents living in flood-prone areas are also advised to remain alert and relocate temporarily where necessary during periods of heavy rainfall,” she noted.

She further warned against the dangerous practice of attempting to cross flooded roads and drains, a situation that has claimed lives in previous flood incidents.

“Motorists and pedestrians must avoid driving or walking through flooded roads and drains, as many lives have been lost in similar circumstances in the past,” she warned.

To help minimise the impact of future flooding, Ocloo directed all Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives across the region to intensify sanitation activities and ensure drains are cleared after rainfall events.

“I task all my MMDCEs to deploy their sanitation task force to clear all debris after each rainfall so that we do not have choked gutters, which will result in subsequent flooding,” she stated.

The Regional Minister also confirmed that the Weija Dam has been opened following rising water levels caused by heavy rains, a development that has affected nearby communities and infrastructure.

“I wish to state that the Weija Dam has been opened, and the situation has had a significant effect on surrounding communities and infrastructure within the enclave,” she said.

According to her, the controlled spillage was necessary to protect the structural integrity of the dam and prevent a potentially more dangerous situation.

“The controlled release of excess water becomes necessary due to heavy rainfall and rising water levels in the dam to prevent structural damage and ensure public safety,” she explained.

Ocloo disclosed that members of the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) would embark on an inspection of affected areas to assess the damage and coordinate assistance, including evacuations where necessary.

She assured residents that the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council would continue working closely with emergency agencies and other stakeholders to safeguard lives and property throughout the rainy season.

NA/VPO