In the wake of devastating floods that swept through several regions of Ghana, most severely impacting the Greater Accra Region, the Ministry of Finance has disbursed GH¢350 million from the Contingency Fund to bolster emergency relief and flood mitigation efforts.
This significant release of funds, following a directive from President John Dramani Mahama, is aimed at providing immediate assistance to flood victims and laying the groundwork for long-term solutions to Ghana’s persistent flooding crisis. Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, was tasked with swiftly mobilizing resources, resulting in the transfer of funds into a dedicated National Disaster Management Committee account at the Bank of Ghana.
The government’s National Emergency Flood Response Programme will channel GH¢200 million toward humanitarian assistance for those affected, supporting families forced from their homes and businesses devastated by the floods. The remaining GH¢150 million is earmarked for critical flood mitigation projects aimed at protecting vulnerable communities and reducing future risks.
The recent disaster, caused by hours of unrelenting rainfall from Sunday into Monday, left communities across Accra and beyond submerged. Homes, businesses, roads, and vital infrastructure suffered extensive damage. Markets and commercial centers faced heavy losses as traders saw their goods and equipment destroyed. The floods killed dozens, stranded hundreds of commuters, and forced many families into temporary shelters.
Major roads became impassable when drains overflowed, and low-lying neighborhoods experienced severe inundation. Emergency responders, from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), Ghana National Fire Service, Ghana Police Service, and the Armed Forces, were quickly deployed to rescue trapped residents and restore a sense of normalcy.
Government officials say the intervention underscores their commitment to delivering swift humanitarian support while investing in long-term flood prevention. With the dedicated funds now in place, authorities hope to bring much-needed relief to affected communities and begin work on measures to prevent such disasters in the future.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com