The recent spillage from the Northern dams has triggered a swift response from the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO).

Director of Communication for NADMO George Ayisi, pointed out that the spill started yesterday, and the impact downstream is expected to be felt between three to six days later.

“…So, we are anticipating that the effect will not be that bad. The permanent solution lies in the construction of the Pwalugu dam.”
George Ayisi Director of Communication for NADMO

According to George Ayisi, a crucial factor that could mitigate the potential disaster is that this year’s spillage coincides with a dry spell in the Northern sector. This contrasts with previous years, where rainfall during the spillage period often worsened flooding.

In describing the situation, George Ayisi highlighted that “the grounds are wet,” but this year, “rain is not raining up North as of now,” which could result in minimal impact. Normally, when the northern sector is very wet, floodwaters significantly swell, leading to severe consequences for agricultural businesses.

However, the current dry conditions present a silver lining, as they anticipate that “the effect will not be that bad.

George Ayisi emphasized that the government’s long-term solution lies in the construction of the Pwalugu dam. This project is expected to curb the persistent flooding issues by controlling water flow and reducing overflow risks.

George Ayisi expressed optimism that “government policy and decision is geared towards providing a permanent solution.”

“The funders of this Pwalugu dam construction, the final hydro, is halted a bit when COVID kicked in,” George Ayisi added, expressing hope that negotiations with the funders would lead to resuming the project.

Meanwhile, preparations are underway to monitor the current spillage closely. George Ayisi explained that one of the key challenges is convincing residents to relocate temporarily. Many are hesitant to move because they have nowhere to go, and previous attempts to relocate them have often led to the same outcome—returning to their homes along the riverbanks, he remarked.

“When you tell them to move, their question is, where are you asking them to move to?”
George Ayisi Director of Communication for NADMO

This poses a significant dilemma, as “annually, you see them on the road, on the streets, in the bushes, somewhere just for haven. They have nowhere to go.”

Temporary measures in Community Centers

To address this, NADMO has established temporary shelters, including classrooms and community centers, where people can be relocated during the spillage period. Moreover, efforts have been made to integrate displaced individuals with family members in higher and safer areas. However, this solution is far from ideal.

George Ayisi noted that NADMO “…[is] somehow advocating for permanent resettlement,” but this has proven difficult due to the nature of the fertile land along the riverbanks. Farmers rely heavily on these areas for their livelihoods, which makes relocation a temporary solution at best.

“The banks of the white Volta and the black Volta are the most fertile areas and they are engaged in farming activities,” George Ayisi noted, emphasizing that even if relocated, many would return to resume farming.

The recurring nature of this challenge reflects the complex balance between immediate disaster management and long-term solutions. While temporary shelters and evacuations help in the short term, the construction of the Pwalugu dam remains the most promising permanent solution. Until then, NADMO will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide support where needed.

Moreover, George Ayasi highlighted that NADMO is committed to ensuring the safety of the people. He asserted “We are anticipating that the effect will not be that bad,” but preparedness remains a priority as the organization works to minimize the impact of the spillage.

The ongoing efforts by NADMO highlighted the urgency of securing funding for the Pwalugu dam project, as it represents the most viable long-term solution to the recurrent flooding issue.

In the meantime, NADMO’s current strategy revolves around monitoring, temporary relocation, and engagement with affected communities to ensure that the response to the spillage is both timely and effective.