John Dramani Mahama, the presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has stated that the recent severe flooding in Accra and other areas of the country has highlighted the government’s inadequacy in addressing and mitigating flood risks, revealing a lack of effective management and prevention strategies.
He expressed grave concern over the government’s apparent lack of a thorough and integrated flood prevention and management strategy, as the recent floods have resulted in widespread property damage.
He indicated that tragically, the reported loss of a young schoolboy’s life highlighted the devastating consequences of the government’s inaction.
Furthermore, the NDC flagbearer highlighted that areas previously not prone to flooding are now experiencing inundation even with minimal rainfall, which further exacerbates the government’s ineptitude and lack of effective flood management measures.
According to John Mahama, the fact that the present government has allegedly invested significant funds in flood prevention initiatives, including the Odaw drainage project, makes the current flooding situation all the more disconcerting and unacceptable.
“According to the government, $200 million was spent on the Greater Accra Resilient Integrated Development Program (GARID). While the impact of that huge amount and its intervention have yet to be felt, parliament was recently recalled to approve another $150 million for the same GARID”.
John Dramani Mahama
Furthermore, the former President emphasized that safeguarding the lives and properties of Ghanaians should be a paramount responsibility and a non-negotiable priority for any government, underscoring the importance of effective governance and leadership in ensuring the well-being and security of citizens.
As such, he pointed out that the current administration has fallen short of this fundamental responsibility, failing to provide adequate protection for the lives and properties of Ghanaians, and thereby compromising their safety and well-being.
Mahama Vows To End Flooding Crisis
Furthermore, John Dramani Mahama vowed that if re-elected, his new NDC government would relentlessly pursue a permanent engineering solution to the recurring flooding problem battling the country.
He pledged that his next government would work tirelessly to develop and implement a comprehensive prevention and management plan, bringing an end to the cycle of flooding and its devastating effects on Ghanaians.
As such, he reaffirmed the NDC’s unwavering dedication to this cause, emphasizing the party’s unshakeable resolve to drive the transformative change that Ghana urgently requires, and to bring about a brighter future for all citizens.
John Mahama noted that the NDC’s approach will include investing in sustainable drainage systems, clearing structures in waterways, proper waste management, and proactive measures to mitigate the impact of heavy rains. “We are committed to bringing about the change that our nation needs“, he reiterated
“We cannot afford to continue risking the lives and livelihoods of our people. It is time for real change and real solutions. Let us, as Ghanaians, as a community, unite and work together to build a safer and more resilient Ghana”.
John Dramani Mahama
Accordingly, the former President emphasized that the voices and actions of every single Ghanaian are not just vital, but absolutely crucial in this collective endeavor, stressing that each citizen’s contribution is essential to driving the change that will shape the nation’s future.
Together, every Ghanaian can make a difference. Your voice and action are crucial in this endeavor as we work towards building the Ghana we want together”. – John Mahama
Likewise, the former President emphasized that a long-term solution to the flood issue would be a prudent investment, as it would not only mitigate the human toll but also conserve the nation’s resources, which could then be utilized to drive progress in other sectors and propel the country’s economic growth.
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