Akosombo Dam spillage: Vodza Ecotourism Initiative spells out real situation, calls for support

The Vodza Ecotourism Initiative (VEI) has expressed concerns over the consequences of the recent spillage of the Akosombo Dam and its collateral effects on communities of Vodza, Keta, North, South, and Central Tongu, as well as other riverine communities surrounding the Keta Basin.

It noted that this year’s spillage continues to have a significant impact on the lives and livelihoods of the people in these towns and communities.

Consequently, the VEI, an organisation committed to preserving the ecology, cultural heritage and improving the livelihoods in the Vodza-Keta area spelt out the real situation and how it has affected the people.

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Humanitarian Concerns

VEI noted that the homes of many communities along the Volta River and the Keta Basin have been destroyed, livelihoods disrupted, and more than 10,000 residents completely displaced.

It acknowledged the hardships faced by the above communities and called for support, during this challenging time.

Environmental Impact
VEI stated that the continuing release of water from the Akosombo Dam, although necessary, continues to cause severe flooding in several towns and in some cases has submerged entire communities along the Volta River, leading to extensive damage to farmlands, habitats, and wildlife.

It indicated that this disruption of nature has long-term consequences for both flora and fauna in the area.

Cultural Heritage
The organisation also observed that the spillage continues to adversely impact cultural and historical sites, endangering the preservation of traditional practices and heritage in the region.

It added that it is essential to protect these aspects of the local identity for future generations and research purposes.

VEI therefore encouraged all stakeholders, including the Volta River Authority (VRA), NADMO and the Ghanaian government, to take immediate action to mitigate the negative effects of the Akosombo spillage.

“This includes providing relief and support to affected communities – in cash, kind, and volunteers, as well as implementing sustainable strategies for managing the flow of the Volta River,” it stated.

Meanwhile, VEI said it is dedicated to working collaboratively with local authorities, environmental groups, non-governmental and international organisations as well as the affected communities to find long term solutions that balance the demands of energy production with the preservation of the environment, cultural heritage, and the well-being of the people of the Volta Region and Ghana in general.

“For more information about the Vodza Ecotourism Initiative and our efforts to address the Akosombo spillage, please contact: Audrey Gadzekpo (+233 244 462 652),” it added.

Ghana| Atinkaonline.com| Porcia Oforiwaa Ofori