President Nana Akufo-Addo has expressed his appreciation for the combined efforts of individuals, groups and various entities in Ghana who rallied to provide aid to communities affected by the Akosombo Dam spillage.

Numerous private companies, individuals, and government institutions have rallied to extend relief to downstream Volta River communities that suffered from the unprecedented flooding caused by gushing water spilled from the Akosombo Dam, resulting in significant property and investment losses, especially in the Tongu districts of the Volta region, which were severely impacted.

During his address at the 61st Hogbetsotsoza, the traditional festival of the chiefs and people of Anlo held at Anloga, President Akufo-Addo lauded the collective response as a display of the finest attributes of the Ghanaian spirit.

He highlighted the significant contributions of engineers, healthcare professionals, civil society, businesses, the military and journalists among others in mitigating the impact of the disaster on the affected populace.

President Akufo-Addo acknowledged the collaborative efforts of various sectors such as the Inter-Ministerial Committee, Health Service, Military and Police, all working jointly to address the crisis.

“I know that we do not often think of the possibility of the structures of government working together but we should.” 

He paid tribute to the numerous private sector entities and ordinary citizens who made donations and extended help in various capacities.

However, President Akufo-Addo cautioned against inaccurate reporting by a few journalists that led to misinformation, citing an instance of alleged bilharzia outbreak, which was later clarified by the Health Service.

He urged journalists to uphold the ethical standards of their profession to serve society better.

President Akufo-Addo also commended Mamaga Adzo Srako IV, the Queenmother of Mepe in North Tongu, for courageously defending his "innocent comments" during his visit to the affected area.

This year's festival was on the theme "Climate Change, a Challenge to Lands below Sea Level, a Concern of the Anlo State and the Stakeholders."