The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has warned the public, especially people living along the Lower Volta to desist from drinking water from the Volta Lake, for their safety. 

According to the Volta Regional Director of the FDA, Gordon Akurugu, the current flooding incident had caused contamination of the water in the lake along the Lower Volta. 

He explained that water from the lake is highly unsafe for human consumption, as sewages, chemicals, and other debris have found their way into the lake. 

“Residents must desist from using water from the dam because we can’t guarantee the quality and safety of that water for now”, he said. 

He gave the warning while speaking to Myjoyonline.com on Friday during an exercise to suspend operations of four sachet water-producing companies, who have had their products contaminated with microorganisms. The water contains high levels of mold-yeast, bacteria and E-Coli.

Contaminated sachet water has flooded the market in the South Tongu District, causing public health concerns due to the malfunctioning ultraviolet disinfection system of some producers. 

One of the suspended companies uses water from the lake for production, while two rely on a borehole with the last company receiving supply from the Ghana Water Company. 

Mr. Akurugu said his outfit partnered with the District Emergency Committee to make sure food vendors do not use water from the lake to prevent contaminated food being sold on the markets to ensure public safety. 

He acknowledged and lauded the efforts of institutions and individuals in providing relief items including water and food to the affected victims. 

Over 11 districts across 4 regions have experienced severe forms of flooding following the spillage of the Akosombo Dam which commenced on the 15th of September, 2023.

Hundreds of homes have been submerged in several communities, with about 30,000 residents being displaced as a result of the flooding incidents. 

Through efforts of the National Disaster Management Organization and the Ghana Navy, some victims have been evacuated to safe havens, where they are being housed and provided some relief items.