The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) has confirmed that fifteen people, including eleven children, have died in a tragic boat accident near Kete Krachi in the Oti Region on Saturday, October 11, 2025.

According to the GMA, the boat, which was reportedly grossly overloaded, capsized while crossing a section of the Volta Lake. The victims include children aged between two and fourteen years, along with four adults. Four others survived the disaster.

In a statement, the Authority described the incident as “heartbreaking” and extended “deepest, most heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and the Kete Krachi community enduring this unimaginable loss.”

The GMA has announced a series of decisive actions to address the tragedy and prevent future occurrences. A specialised team comprising Maritime Inspectors and members of the Navy Task Force has been deployed to investigate the circumstances that led to the accident and to ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable.

Additionally, a Casualty Investigations Committee will be constituted in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport to review existing safety measures and recommend urgent policy reforms to improve water transport safety.

The Authority has also launched a sustained lakeside safety enforcement operation, targeting unsafe practices on Volta Lake. Boats found to be overloaded or operating without safety gear will be seized, and their operators prosecuted.

“The GMA remains resolute in its commitment to safer water transport,” the statement said.

The GMA is also urging residents and commuters along the Volta Lake to be vigilant and proactive in ensuring their own safety.

“Do not board any boat that is visibly overloaded or lacks lifejackets. Your refusal could save a life, especially a child’s,” the Authority advised.