‘You are the problem' - Duncan-Williams reacts to flooding, sanitation challenges

General Overseer of Action Chapel International, Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams, has urged Ghanaians to take responsibility for environmental challenges, including flooding and poor sanitation, rather than blaming the government.

In a video sighted by GhanaWeb on July 11, 2026, the renowned preacher said human actions and attitudes are major contributors to the recurring flooding and sanitation challenges faced by communities.

The causes, effects, blame, and solutions of flooding in Ghana

“... When I stood out here before the people to lead prayer, to block the rains and to deal with my anger about the destruction that has taken place, the Lord convicted me that you blame me and you blame the devil for everything. You all don't take responsibility for anything,” he said.

According to him, the problem goes beyond rainfall.

He argued that poor planning, inadequate drainage systems and neglect by residents contribute significantly to flooding.

“The problem is not the rain or the fire. The problem is you human beings,” Archbishop Duncan-Williams stated.

He criticised residents who invest heavily in constructing expensive homes but fail to contribute towards improving roads and drainage systems in their communities.

“I was surprised at some of the places we went to … seeing some of the expensive houses built and the road that leads to the houses. Some of the houses, the gate alone can build a house,” he said.

The Archbishop questioned why some homeowners would spend millions of cedis on properties while refusing to support the development of infrastructure around their homes.

“People are willing to spend money, millions, to build beautiful, nice houses, but are not willing to contribute one dime to fix the road that leads to their house,” he added.

He stressed that while the government has a role to play, citizens must also contribute to solving community problems because political leaders emerge from society.

“I’m not holding brief for government. The reason is because the people in government come from the society. The government is made of the people. So, we can't put all the blame on the government,” he said.

Archbishop Duncan-Williams further called on residents to prioritise cleanliness and proper maintenance of public and private spaces, expressing concern about attitudes towards sanitation even within church environments.

He recounted an incident at his church premises where air conditioners were left running unnecessarily and carpets had deteriorated without anyone noticing.

“Why do we live with filth? It’s enough. We all look well dressed like angels. But we are no angels. We are shaky lilies,” he remarked.

He also challenged citizens to stop distancing themselves from political and social responsibilities by constantly blaming leaders.

“Every time we are insulting politicians, we are all part of the politicians. Tell somebody, you are a politician. Say, we are all politicians,” he told the congregation.

His comments follow the June 29, 2026, that hit several parts of the country, wreaked havoc, displaced residents and claimed at least 13 lives, exposing persistent urban and infrastructure challenges in the country.

JKB/VPO

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