The Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists (GAMLS) expresses deep concern over the recent spillage at the Akosombo and Kpong Dams, which has had significant implications for public health and safety in the Volta region and Ghana at large.

In light of this, it has called on the ministry of health to conduct water quality assessments to ascertain whether the water in affected areas is wholesome for consumption.

The association argued that the spillage has resulted in the contamination of water sources, posing a serious threat to the health and well-being of communities residing along the Volta River.

Furthermore, GAMLS noted that the spillage has affected greatly school activities, healthcare, and other economic activities of the flood-stricken communities.
As Medical Laboratory Scientists, the association highlighted the potential health risks associated with exposure to contaminated water and the contamination of food sources, including the spread of waterborne diseases.

“GAMLS urges relevant authorities including the Ministry of Health to take immediate steps to address the public health implications of the spillage. This includes conducting thorough water quality assessments to determine the extent of contamination and implementing appropriate measures to ensure the safety of drinking water sources for affected communities.”
Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists

Furthermore, GAMLS called on the government and relevant agencies to provide necessary support and resources to healthcare facilities in the affected areas. This, it noted, includes ensuring the availability of medical supplies, diagnostic tools, and trained personnel to effectively manage any potential health crises that may arise as a result of the spillage.

“GAMLS also emphasizes the importance of public awareness and education regarding the potential health risks associated with the spillage. We urge the government and relevant agencies to engage in comprehensive public health campaigns to inform communities about the necessary precautions to take and the signs and symptoms of waterborne diseases.”
Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists

To help address the matter, the association expressed commitment to supporting efforts to mitigate the health impacts of the spillage.

GAMLS emphasized that it is ready to collaborate with the government, healthcare institutions, and other stakeholders to provide expertise and assistance in water quality monitoring, disease surveillance, and public health interventions.

“It is crucial that lessons are learned from this incident to prevent similar occurrences in future and to protect the health and well-being of our communities.”
Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists

Moreover, the group urged government to declare a state of emergency in the affected region.
By declaring a state of emergency, it revealed that the government can mobilize resources, coordinate efforts, and allocate funds to effectively respond to the crisis.

“This would enable the prompt implementation of emergency measures, including the provision of clean drinking water, medical supplies, and support for agriculture and fishing industries.”
Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists

NAGRAT petitions education ministry on devastated communities

Meanwhile, the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT) has called on the Education Ministry to establish and implement measures to alleviate the impact of the flood disaster in the Lower Volta Basin on education and school children.

Contained in a press statement, NAGRAT noted that the flooding, as a result of the Akosombo Dam spillage, has disrupted the lives and education of many children and thus it is important to create a stable and secure environment for students and their families.

“We call upon the Ministry of Education and other relevant bodies to put in place measures to mitigate the impact of this disaster on the education of affected children. NAGRAT and its members are ever ready to offer the needed support. NAGRAT emphasizes the need for a concerted effort from all stakeholders to respond to this disaster with the needed expertise, compassion, and urgency. Our thoughts are with the affected communities, and we stand in solidarity with them during this challenging period.”
NAGRAT

Also, NAGRAT urged the government and responsible agencies to prioritize the welfare of the affected people and to take proactive steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.

“We will continue to monitor the situation closely and offer our assistance in any way possible to ensure a swift and effective response to this crisis.”
NAGRAT