Ibrahim Mahama Takes Action: Dredging Initiative to Tackle Stagnant Water Crisis in Flooded Mepe

By Tanihu Nancy Oye

The problems of Mepe, lying on the western bank of the Volta River in the North Tongu District, currently flooded due to the Akosombo and Kpong dams spillage leaving a lot of stagnant water, may soon be in the past. In a display of community engagement, businessman Ibrahim Mahama has embarked on a project to dredge these stagnant pools to make life better for the local community and environment.

The town’s estimated population of 20,000 have been struggling with stagnant water created by the annual controlled spillage of the Akosombo and Kpong dams by the Volta River Authority to address rising water levels.

The stagnant pools of water have posed multiple challenges to the residents and the surrounding ecosystem. They serve as breeding grounds for disease-carrying mosquitoes and also hinder agricultural activities. In short, they pose a threat to the community and their environment.

“The water stagnation issue began about two years ago after heavy rains. The drains got clogged, leading to water pooling in our neighborhood. It’s terrible,” explains a local resident Ms. Awusife Kagbitor. “The stagnant water attracts mosquitoes and causes a foul smell. We’ve repeatedly reported it to the authorities, but not much has been done. It’s a nightmare to deal with this daily,” she moans.

According to an environmentalist James Mensah, “water stagnation is a severe issue affecting the area due to poor urban planning and clogged drainage systems. This stagnation harms local ecosystems and can lead to the spread of waterborne diseases. Immediate action is necessary to unclog drains, improve water flow, and address the root causes of this problem.”

Some, like resident Bruku Ivy Yawa, attribute the flooding to climate change.

Joshua Asamoah, a seasoned meteorologist at the Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet), emphasizes that the recent spillage cannot be solely attributed to unusual or recent changes in weather patterns over the Akosombo area. He explains that rainfall variability is a regular occurrence in Ghana. Every season brings its unique characteristics, and no two seasons are alike.

Regardless the cause, the Ibrahim Mahama (IM) Foundation sees the water stagnation issue in this community as a major concern.

“We have conducted preliminary assessments and have collaborated with local authorities to propose and initiate a drainage improvement project. Our goal is to implement sustainable solutions, including unclogging drains, improving infrastructure, and raising awareness to prevent future stagnation issues,” explained a spokesperson for the Foundation

The IM Foundation has allocated resources and equipment to address this issue. The process involves the removal of accumulated sediment and debris, thus improving water flow and preventing waterborne diseases. This initiative is expected to have a significant impact on the health and livelihoods of the local community.

Local resident Bruku Ivy Yawas expressed gratitude for the Foundation’s involvement in addressing this long-standing concern. She highlights the potential for increased agricultural productivity, reduced health risks, and overall improved living conditions as a result of the dredging project.

Environmentalist James Mensah has also praised the effort, acknowledging the positive impact on the local ecosystem. Dredging the stagnant water bodies is expected to restore the natural balance and contribute to a healthier environment in the Mepe area.

Ibrahim Mahama’s commitment to this project sets an example for public figures and business leaders to actively engage in projects that benefit local communities and the environment.

The dredging project in Mepe is a testament to the positive change that can be achieved when individuals and organizations come together to address critical issues in their communities. It is a noteworthy endeavor that promises to bring tangible benefits to Mepe and its residents.