Akosombo Dam spillage victims yet to receive compensation after three years - Mahama

Nearly three years after the devastating Akosombo and Kpong dam spillage displaced thousands of residents and destroyed homes, farmlands and businesses across parts of the Volta Region, many victims are still waiting to receive compensation from the government.

The 2023 controlled spillage, carried out by the Volta River Authority (VRA) to protect the structural integrity of the Akosombo Dam following rising water levels, triggered severe flooding in several communities along the lower Volta basin. The disaster forced families from their homes, swept away livelihoods and left many residents dependent on humanitarian assistance for months.

Akosombo Dam spillage victims await government assistance despite GH¢80 million allocation – Ablakwa

Although relief items and temporary support were provided in the aftermath of the disaster, compensation for the losses suffered by affected residents has yet to be paid, despite repeated calls from victims and community leaders for the government to honour its commitment.

Addressing the issue during his Resetting Ghana tour of the Volta Region on Thursday, July 16, 2026, President John Dramani Mahama assured affected residents that the long-awaited compensation process was nearing completion.

According to him, the verification and assessment of affected persons were almost complete, paving the way for payments to begin.

“The resilience of the people of this region has been tested in recent years. The spillage of the Akosombo and Kpong dams caused significant hardship for many families, affecting homes, farms, businesses and livelihoods across several communities. The government has remained fully engaged in addressing the aftermath of that unfortunate event,” he said.

President Mahama said the government was determined to ensure that the compensation process was conducted fairly and transparently.

“The necessary verification, assessment and administrative processes relating to compensation are being concluded. And I wish to assure all affected people that the government remains committed to ensuring that the process is finalised fairly, transparently and responsibly,” he stated.

He added that compensation payments would commence immediately after the verification exercise is completed.

“Once this process is finalised, the Minister of Finance will make an allocation in this year’s budget to start the payment of compensation.”

The government earmarked GH¢225 million in the 2025 Budget to compensate victims of the disaster. President Mahama further indicated that if the amount proves insufficient, additional funding would be provided in next year's budget to ensure all affected residents receive the support due them.

NA/AM

Mahama Ayariga speaks on Kwame Frimpong’s seat in Parliament