Former Interior Minister, Henry Quartey, has called for a review of the membership of the government's Anti-Flood Taskforce, saying the committee requires broader representation from key state institutions and technical experts to effectively address Ghana's recurring flooding crisis.

Speaking on Wednesday, July 1, Mr Quartey acknowledged the calibre of individuals appointed to the taskforce but argued that the country's flood management challenges demand a more comprehensive approach.

He said the committee should include senior government officials responsible for security, finance and disaster management, given the growing economic and national security implications of flooding.

President John Dramani Mahama recently established the Anti-Flood Taskforce to coordinate efforts aimed at addressing persistent flooding across the country.

The committee is chaired by Deputy Chief of Staff Stanislav Xoese Dogbe, with Marietta Brew serving as its secretary. However, Mr Quartey questioned the exclusion of several critical institutions from the body.

"I think issues about flooding, you cannot form a committee of this nature without the Minister of the Interior. You cannot form a committee of this nature without the Minister for Finance," he said.

The former minister also recommended the inclusion of the Inspector-General of Police, the Chief of Defence Staff, officials of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and other security agencies.

In addition, he stressed the need for technical specialists such as geologists, hydrogeologists and spatial planners to provide scientific guidance to inform government policy. "You need a geologist. You need a hydrogeologist. You need a spatial planner. These people should be on the committee so that they can provide the technical advice, and then the politicians can drive the policy," he stated.

Mr Quartey's remarks come in the aftermath of the recent devastating floods that affected parts of Greater Accra and other regions, triggering renewed debate over Ghana's flood management strategy. While insisting that the current members are accomplished professionals, he urged President Mahama to strengthen the committee by expanding its expertise.

"With the greatest respect, the President may have to look at it again and add some flesh to the committee so they will be able to perform their duties," he added.