Hohoe Municipal Chief Executive, Honourable Prosper Kumi has warned communities downstream of the Hohoe Municipality to exercise caution as floodwaters from the River Dayi continue to move into adjoining areas. The MCE explained that the situation had shifted from the initially affected communities in Hohoe towards Gbi Wegbe and areas connecting the municipality to North Dayi and South Dayi.
According to Honourable Kumi, the movement of the water has already disrupted key connections between communities, with the bridge linking Gbi Wegbe to Alavanyo becoming inaccessible. He noted that another bridge known as the Kitikpa Bridge, which serves as a pathway for residents travelling to neighbouring communities and farms, has also been washed away as the water level increased.
Directing attention to the developments downstream, the MCE urged communities in the affected direction to take precautionary measures and avoid waiting until the water reaches their immediate surroundings. He explained that although the situation appears to be moving away from Hohoe Municipality, the continuing flow could create difficulties for communities further along the river system.
“Those downstream should take caution. It is currently moving away from my municipality, the way it looks like, but it means that Gbi within the Hohoe Municipality towards North Dayi, South Dayi, they should be cautious of the experience we have just had.”
Honourable Prosper Kumi
Referencing the emergency coordination underway, the MCE disclosed that communication has been established with authorities in neighbouring areas to alert them of the potential risk. The Regional NADMO Coordinator has also been briefed, while regional security personnel has been involved in monitoring developments and supporting local authorities.
On the source of the flooding, Honourable Kumi attributed the situation largely to the overflow of the river from its source in Togo. He explained that the water passed through several communities before reaching Hohoe, contributing to the scale of the flooding experienced in the municipality.
Meanwhile, the MCE revealed that authorities are continuing to monitor the situation closely as the water moves beyond Hohoe. He urged communities along the downstream route to remain alert and respond promptly to warnings from NADMO, security agencies and local authorities.
Hohoe MCE Outlines Emergency Measures to Protect Flood Victims
Hohoe Municipal Chief Executive, Honourable Prosper Kumi also outlined a series of emergency interventions being implemented to support residents affected by the flooding and protect vulnerable communities. The MCE explained that temporary accommodation, food, drinking water and health preparations had become immediate priorities as authorities continued assessing the situation.
Addressing the needs of displaced residents, Honourable Kumi disclosed that authorities had secured mattresses for the temporary shelters established in classrooms, halls and other safe locations. He noted that meals had also been provided to residents while sachet water was distributed to ensure access to drinking water.
Beyond immediate relief, the MCE revealed that the Assembly has begun preparing for possible public health challenges that could emerge after the floodwaters recede. He explained that an emergency health committee meeting had been held to strengthen preparedness, particularly because stagnant water, damaged sanitation systems and contaminated surroundings could create conditions for disease outbreaks.
“We expect and are anticipating that there could be possible cholera outbreak. My environmental unit has also been working with the sanitation team so that when the water is receding, we are able to clear the debris as well alongside the places.”
Honourable Prosper Kumi
On essential services, the MCE highlighted the disruption to the water supply system after flooding affected key facilities. He noted that Ghana Water Company operations has been affected, prompting the Assembly to provide water to critical institutions, including the hospital and other service providers.
Meanwhile, Honourable Kumi disclosed that the Assembly has begun discussions with government agencies and private organisations to mobilise additional assistance for affected residents. He explained that the financial demands were still evolving because relief operations and field assessments were continuing, making it difficult to establish a final expenditure figure.
Emphasising the need for wider support, the MCE appealed to corporate bodies within the municipality to contribute to the relief effort through their social responsibility initiatives. He noted that some organisations have already responded with food items, which are being distributed to residents in the temporary shelters.
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