Heavy rains over the past few weeks have triggered severe flooding in parts of the Western Region, displacing over 1,700 residents and causing extensive damage to homes and properties. The National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) has confirmed the situation and initiated emergency response measures.
According to a recent NADMO situational report, the overflowing of the Tano, Samre, Benkere, and Kwama Rivers has submerged entire communities, particularly affecting areas including Samreboi Township, Wassa Dunkwa, and Asankrangwa.
The floods are attributed to persistent heavy rainfall, river overflows, surface runoff, and illegal mining activities along the rivers.
Communities hardest hit are: Aboifie, Popoloso, Log Pond, Nsuo Akyi and Asankrangwa Mota
The rest are: Asankrangwa Lowcost Wassa Dunkwa, and Samreboi experienced the most severe impact, with residents evacuating as the community was completely submerged.
A total of 1,710 people have been displaced, including 50 lactating mothers who require special assistance. Over 850 homes have been damaged, with 26 structures collapsing entirely. Victims have lost personal belongings, foodstuffs, clothing, and important documents.
Fortunately, there have been no reports of deaths or injuries so far. NADMO, in collaboration with municipal authorities and humanitarian partners, has begun rapid assessments, relocated victims to designated safe sites such as schools and churches, and provided health screening through the Amenfi West Health Directorate, Western Regional Director of NADMO, Daniel Darlington ATITSO disclosed.
The NADMO report emphasizes the urgent need for relief items, including mattresses, food, clothing, blankets, and mosquito nets. It also highlights the importance of livelihood support to help residents restore their economic activities.
According to Daniel Darlington ATITSO “long-term solutions proposed include desilting and widening drainage channels, enforcing regulations against illegal mining, and developing sustainable drainage infrastructure to prevent future flooding. Authorities also stress the importance of enforcing building regulations and avoiding construction in flood-prone areas and wetlands”.
The Western Regional Assembly, local Member of Parliament, Samretex Company, and the Council of State are working together to support affected residents and implement the recommended measures.
As the region continues to grapple with the aftermath of the floods, authorities are calling on national and international partners to assist in relief efforts and long-term planning to mitigate future disasters.
