The University of Ghana branch of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UG-UTAG), has solidarized with the victims of the spillage from the Akosombo Dam.

UTAG-UG says the pain and trauma the victims are going through is unimaginable. 

In a press release issued on Saturday, October 14, UTAG-UG urged the government to devise a mechanism to ameliorate the plight of the victims.

“The University of Ghana branch of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UG-UTAG), notes with concern the displacement of individuals and communities in the Volta Region of Ghana, because of the currently ongoing spillage of water from the Akosombo Dam.”

“The distress, trauma, and the hardships this exercise continues to exert on them are unimaginable. We are in solidarity with all affected individuals in these communities.”

“We urge the government and all agencies involved in the management of the Akosombo Dam to devise mechanisms that allow for the maintenance of this important national facility, without the perennial displacement of people from their homes and the untold hardships such exercises bring upon them.”

They added that they have the expertise and are willing to help the government to address the issue. 

“As UTAG, we have the expertise and are willing to help the government in addressing this perennial problem.”

“While we mobilize ourselves to donate our widow’s mite in support of those affected, we urge the National Disaster Management Organization to double up its interventions to deal with the plight of those affected.”

The statement concluded by appealing to Ghanaians to support the victims. 

“We also appeal to all Ghanaians, home and abroad, and international agencies to come to the aid of these people. Provision of temporary shelter, food and water, medical supplies, etc. will go a long way to help ameliorate their suffering.”

Flooding caused by the spillage has forced many communities in the north, south, and Central Tongu districts of the Volta Region to evacuate, leaving them with no choice but to try and salvage what's left of their belongings.

The situation was dire, with the Comboni Hospital staff having to evacuate their quarters and seek shelter under a pavilion.

Patients have also been discharged, with only ten in critical condition remaining. If the water levels do not recede soon, they may also have to be discharged.