President John Dramani Mahama has made it clear that the leadership of the Volta River Authority (VRA) will face removal or be asked to step down if another flood disaster like the 2023 Akosombo Dam spillage occurs under their watch.

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Speaking during a national address on Wednesday, May 7, to mark 120 days since his administration took office, Mahama highlighted the actions being taken to prevent a repeat of the incident.

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He noted that a technical team, led by former VRA boss Ing. Kirk Koffi, was tasked with investigating the disaster and coming up with long-term solutions to manage future risks.

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“This administration set up a committee chaired by Ing. Kirk Koffi, a former VRA CEO. The committee has recommended strategies to prevent future occurrences, including establishing what is called a controlled spill flood plan and implementing downstream engineering solutions for flood management,” Mahama said.

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He directed that the committee's suggestions be put into effect without delay.

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“I have directed that the recommendations be implemented immediately,” he stated.

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Mahama also sent a clear message that the VRA’s top officials will be held responsible if these recommendations are not properly carried out.

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“I have further indicated that if they are not properly implemented and another destructive VRA flooding occurs like in 2023, the VRA CEO and deputies must resign or be sacked,” he declared.

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The Akosombo Dam spillage in 2023 caused widespread devastation, forcing thousands from their homes and drawing heavy criticism over the lack of emergency planning.

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With this warning, Mahama reinforced his commitment to accountability and proactive management of national infrastructure in the face of growing environmental threats.

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