ECOWAS and Ghana Chamber of Mines Provide Multi-Million Cedi Aid to Flood Victims as Bagre Dam Spillage Looms

Ghana’s disaster management efforts have received a significant boost through major contributions from international and corporate partners, aimed at supporting victims of recent devastating floods. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has donated $250,000 (approximately GH¢3 million) to the Ghanaian government to assist in relief operations. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who announced the donation, emphasized that the funds would be distributed with a high level of transparency and accountability to ensure they reach the most affected individuals. The country continues to recover from heavy rains that have caused widespread displacement and property destruction across several regions.

Supplementing these international efforts, the Ghana Chamber of Mines has donated relief items worth approximately GH¢2 million to the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO). The contribution includes 1,500 mattresses, blankets, baby food, and personal protective equipment. During the presentation, the CEO of the Chamber of Mines, Kenneth Ashigbey, underscored the organization’s commitment to corporate citizenship and responsible mining. He noted that while natural rainfall triggered the disasters, human activities have significantly exacerbated the impact of flooding in many communities. Deputy Minister of the Interior Ebenezer Telarbi received the items, calling for a collective national effort to improve disaster management and resilience.

While relief efforts are underway, NADMO has issued an urgent alert regarding a potential secondary disaster involving the Bagre Dam in Burkina Faso. The dam’s water levels have reached 232.93 metres, rapidly approaching the critical spill point of 234 metres. NADMO’s North East Regional Director, Tahiru Rafiu, has warned that spillage is expected to begin by August 11, which could lead to severe flooding in communities along the White Volta. Farmers and residents near the riverbanks are being urged to relocate immediately and avoid flooded fields to protect lives and livelihoods. NADMO is currently coordinating with local traditional leaders to execute contingency plans and educate the public on the risks of the early spillage.