In a recent dialogue between the Volta River Authority (VRA) and the Ghana Institution of Engineering (GHIE), the VRA’s engineering expertise and decision-making during the controlled spilling of the Akosombo Dam received high praise from industry experts and dignitaries.
Ing. Kwabena Bempong, President of the Ghana Institution of Engineering, lauded the VRA for their exceptional engineering skills, effectively balancing the critical task of preserving the dam’s structural integrity while safeguarding lives. He underscored the importance of well-informed discussions and actions grounded in facts and data, highlighting the pivotal role of such dialogues in disseminating accurate information.
Also, Ing. Dr. Kwame Boakye, a former president of the Ghana Institution of Engineering, expressed his unwavering confidence in the capabilities of the country’s engineers. He emphasized the need for all engineers to communicate to the nation that “engineering worked,” stressing that Ghana boasts some of the world’s most talented engineering minds.
Solomon Oppong-Twumasi, a High Court Judge, conveyed his profound admiration for the VRA’s work, expressing genuine astonishment at their accomplishments in a relatively short period. He went on to affirm that the collective expertise displayed at the gathering reinforced his pride in Ghana’s engineering prowess, declaring, “Ghana ye wo adze oye,” meaning “Ghana has great engineers.”
During the event, the Chief Executive of the VRA reasserted the organization’s commitment to assisting the affected communities in their recovery efforts. He assured the public that all available resources would be mobilized to restore the affected areas to their previous conditions.
The VRA presented their preparations for the controlled spill of the Akosombo Dam, shedding light on the rationale behind their actions. Additionally, they showcased the relief projects initiated and the support provided to the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) for the benefit of the affected communities.
The event brought together over 300 engineers and associates at the Engineering Center of the Ghana Institution of Engineering, underscoring the significance of dialogue, collaboration, and recognition of engineering excellence in addressing significant challenges and crises, such as the controlled dam spill.
The VRA’s remarkable efforts and responsible engineering practices have garnered recognition from experts and leaders, emphasizing the vital role of engineering in national development and safety.
Government Visits Victims Of Spillage
Meanwhile, Energy Minister Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh led officials from the Volta River Authority and the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) as part of the VRA’s routine visits to affected areas.
Addressing stakeholders at the NADMO Emergency Operations Center in the North Tongu District Assembly in Battor, the Minister expressed his solidarity with the affected people and reiterated the government’s ongoing support for the affected communities.
The team also visited the Central Tongu District Assembly in Adidome, where the District Chief Executive, Hon. Thomas Moore Zonyrah, expressed his gratitude for the Minister’s visit.
The Minister’s delegation donated various relief items to the affected communities, including staples like rice, gari, and mackerel, along with essential supplies such as solar lamps. These items will be distributed to aid those affected by the dam spill.
Dr. Prempeh emphasized the government’s commitment, through an inter-ministerial committee, to provide necessary relief to those affected.
Togbe Kofi Torsu, Mankralo of Bakpa, also conveyed his appreciation to the Minister and the officials for their continued support.
After the engagements, the Minister reiterated his ministry’s readiness to collaborate with the VRA and all stakeholders to address the matter comprehensively.
The Minister is scheduled to appear before Parliament on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, alongside VRA officials, to provide an update to the house on the interventions undertaken in response to the dam spillage.
However, coastal towns downstream the Akosombo dam, even as they battle tidal waves, are now grappling with the aftermath of the spillage as floodwaters head towards the sea.
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