The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has taken a proactive step by forming a seven-member committee to investigate the recent spillage of the Akosombo Dam. This decision was made after delays from the Majority leadership in submitting committee member names, prompting Bagbin to form the committee himself.
The North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, had earlier called on parliament to expedite its probe into the spillage of the Akosombo and Kpong dams. The committee, which includes members from both sides of the house, will be chaired by MP for Ahafo Ano North, Sulemana Adamu Sanid, with other members such as Dr Emmanuel Marfo and Francisca Oteng Mensah.
The committee’s mandate is to thoroughly investigate various critical aspects of the spillage, including establishing the circumstances leading to the spillage, evaluating the preparedness and response of the Volta River Authority and relevant bodies, and assessing the impact of the spillage on affected communities.
The Speaker emphasized the importance of examining global best practices for dam management and making recommendations to prevent and mitigate future disasters. He highlighted the devastating impact of the spillage on thousands of Ghanaians, including loss of property and disruption of livelihoods.
The Volta River Authority had issued a notice earlier indicating their plan to consult with relevant stakeholders about a potential future spillage of excess water from the Akosombo Dam. Concerns have been raised by Ghanaians about the timing and communication of the spillage, and the Speaker stressed the importance of addressing these issues.
Overall, the formation of this committee reflects a commitment to addressing the challenges posed by the recent dam spillage and finding solutions to prevent similar incidents in the future.
