The Volta Regional House of Chiefs has initiated a Disaster Relief Fund with an initial fund of fifty thousand Ghana cedis (GHS50,000) to aid those affected by the Akosombo dam spillage. This effort aims to garner support from the public, charitable organizations, and businesses to provide essential assistance to the flood victims.
The recent flooding along the Volta Lake has impacted over 20,000 individuals. This is the most severe flooding since 1963, primarily due to population growth and societal changes.
Mepe, a community in the North Tongu District of the Volta region, has been hit the hardest. The flooding has affected 30 communities in Central Tongu, 22 in South Tongu, 37 in North Tongu, approximately 10 communities in the Keta Municipality, and 16 communities in the Anlo District. Some areas in the North and South Dayi districts have also been affected.
The urgent need for support from individuals, philanthropists, and corporate entities is crucial for the survival of these affected victims. The Volta Regional House of Chiefs, in collaboration with media outlets like Ghana Broadcasting Corporation’s Volta Star Radio in Ho, has established a Relief Fund to assist flood victims.
During a meeting of the Standing Committee Members of the House to announce the launch of the Volta Regional House of Chiefs Disaster Relief Fund, the President of the House, Togbe Tapre Hodo, emphasized that the flooding had left numerous individuals and families in desperate need of relief and support. The fund’s creation underscores the House’s commitment to alleviating the suffering caused by the dam spillage.
Togbe Tapre Hodo revealed, “The Volta Regional House of Chiefs is contributing 50,000 Ghana cedis as the initial fund for the Disaster Relief Fund. We have also taken steps to open a bank account at the Ghana Commercial Bank, Ho main branch, with account number 5011180003678.” He extended an invitation to philanthropic organizations, agencies, well-wishers, and the Diplomatic community to contribute to this cause.
Mama Sename, the Paramount Queen mother of Mafi Traditional Area in the Central Tongu District, recounted the devastating experience and called for assistance, particularly for women and children. She explained the dire need for clean water in the affected communities, as their water sources have been contaminated.
According to the Volta Regional House of Chiefs, the Disaster Relief Fund reflects the region’s resilience and unity in times of crisis.