HEALTH TEAMS STEP UP FLOOD DISEASE PREVENTION IN HOHOE

Health authorities in the Hohoe Municipality are intensifying public health education in flood-affected communities as emergency teams work to provide shelter and assistance to thousands of displaced residents.

Preliminary data from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) indicates that about 5,140 residents have been displaced and 412 houses affected by flooding in 11 communities in the municipality.

Some buildings and other structures have been completely destroyed, with Hohoe Zongo among the worst-affected communities.

The Member of Parliament for Hohoe, Thomas Worlanyo Tsekpo, disclosed the figures in a public update issued on Thursday, October 1, 2026.

According to the update, public health officials are educating residents on safe drinking water, food hygiene, waste disposal, personal hygiene and measures to prevent waterborne diseases.

A comprehensive health screening exercise is also expected to be conducted across the affected communities.

The health interventions form part of efforts to reduce the risk of disease outbreaks in the aftermath of the flooding.

Beyond the health concerns, the disaster has created an urgent need for temporary accommodation for residents who have been forced to leave their homes.

Security agencies and emergency response teams have been mobilised to evacuate people from high-risk areas, while some displaced residents have been accommodated in available facilities, including classrooms.

The Social Welfare Department and other stakeholders are working to identify additional temporary accommodation for affected households.

Relief supplies, including mattresses, blankets, rice, tinned fish, cooking oil and other essential household items, have been distributed through the MP’s office, the Hohoe Municipal Assembly, NADMO, individuals and organisations.

Initial distribution has covered Gbi Kledjo, Atabu, Kpoeta and parts of Hohoe Zongo. Further distribution is expected in other affected communities based on verified NADMO data.

Mr Tsekpo, however, said the support received so far was insufficient and called for additional assistance from individuals, businesses, development partners, civil society organisations and other benevolent institutions.

A Relief Distribution Committee comprising Assembly Members and other stakeholders has been formed to oversee the allocation of relief items according to the verified needs of affected households.

Although floodwaters are receding in some areas, authorities have cautioned residents against returning to buildings that have not been assessed and declared safe.

Mr Tsekpo urged residents to follow official safety guidance as the municipality continues its emergency response and prepares for recovery and reconstruction.

His office is working with the Municipal Assembly, NADMO, security agencies, health authorities, traditional authorities and other stakeholders to support affected residents.