CONIWAS, partners donate to Pediator-Korpe flood victims

On March 27th, the Coalition of Non-Governmental Organizations in the Water and Sanitation Sector (CONIWAS) and its partners donated relief items to communities affected by the Akosombo Dam spillage in Ada East.

The items donated included bags of rice, sachets of water, and used clothes valued at hundreds of Ghanaian Cedis. This donation was part of the activities planned for the 2024 World Water Day celebration, which has a global theme of “Leveraging Water for Peace.” The national theme is “Promoting Utilization of Water for Peace.”

During the gathering, the Executive Secretary of CONIWAS, Madam Basilia Nanbigne, urged residents to maintain cleanliness in their surroundings, particularly along the riverbanks. She emphasized the importance of protecting water resources from pollution caused by human activities, such as dumping waste in and around rivers.

“Let’s remember that any harmful environmental actions we take near our rivers, lakes, and streams can lead to health issues for our communities and those downstream. To live harmoniously with everyone whose life depends on these vital water bodies, we must commit to preserving, protecting, and ceasing the pollution of our water sources,” the Executive Secretary of CONIWAS stated.

A representative from the Ada East District Assembly extended a warm welcome in commemoration of World Water Day, highlighting water’s vital role in sustaining life and fostering peace. They emphasized the importance of water for economic prosperity and social well-being, urging cooperation and equitable access to water resources to promote stability and sustainable development. The representative acknowledged the challenges surrounding access to water and announced collaborative efforts to address these issues. They expressed gratitude and called for collective action towards a future of harmony and prosperity.

Esi Boni-Morkla emphasized the ministry’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to clean water and sanitation, which are essential for community well-being and conflict prevention. She acknowledged the challenges faced, such as the flood disaster in Pediatorkorpe last year, and highlighted the collaborative efforts being made to address emergencies and transboundary water issues. She expressed gratitude to partners like the Coalition of NGOs in Water and Sanitation for their longstanding dedication and their pledge of ongoing support for a future in which everyone enjoys clean water, sanitation, and peace.

The Zonal Director of the Ada East office of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), Phidicks Ofori Glah, reported that the recent spillage from the Akosombo Dam has had a significant negative impact on Ada East. This incident affected over 5,685 individuals.

In response, NADMO and its stakeholders evacuated and provided shelter for more than 767 affected persons across three safe havens. These shelters operated from October 15 to November 9, 2023, incurring operational expenses totaling GH¢90,222, with additional debts still pending.

Mr. Ofori Glah is appealing to individuals and corporate bodies for assistance in settling these outstanding payments.

“Nene Chairman, I would like to take this opportunity to urge everyone, both near and far, to avoid dumping refuse into our water bodies in order to reduce pollution. We must work towards a lasting solution to the issues caused by dam spillage and prevent water contamination. I encourage all community members to actively participate in preserving the quality of our water.”