The Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has stated that while the severe flooding in Ketu South has displaced hundreds of residents, the government does not deem it necessary to declare a state of emergency at this time.
He emphasized that the focus should be on implementing long-term protective measures rather than an emergency declaration.
His comments follow a visit by President John Dramani Mahama and key government ministers to the Ketu South Constituency, where communities such as Salakope, Amutinu, and Agavedzi have been severely affected by the floods. The visit was aimed at assessing the damage and determining appropriate interventions.
Speaking on Citi FM on Thursday, March 6, 2025, Agbodza stressed the need for sustainable solutions.
“I don’t know what goes into the declaration of a state of emergency. Of course, what I saw there was devastating, but I think the best thing we can do for the people living there is to go ahead and do the sea defence to protect them. That, I believe, I can support any initiative along that path,” he stated.
He further assured that the government is committed to addressing the crisis and providing relief to affected residents.
“There are a series of things the government is going to do. All the key ministers have been there, so we are going to further discuss the other support system we need to give the people while we find a solution to solve the problem,” he added.
Meanwhile, President Mahama has directed the Finance Minister, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, to allocate funds for the commencement of phase two of the Blekusu Sea Defence Project.
The initiative is expected to provide a long-term solution to the recurring tidal waves and flooding affecting coastal communities in the Volta Region.