Dam spillage: VRA has managed hydro-power plant over 60years backed with expertise, data; calling for our dismissal isn't fair' — VRA boss

Ing. Edward Ekow Obeng-Kenzo, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Engineering and Operations) at the Volta River Authority (VRA), has reacted to critics who are calling for the dismissal of VRA management over the recent Akosombo dam spillage that has wreaked havoc in the Volta Region.

The spillage flooded nearby communities, displacing residents and destroying properties worth millions of Ghana cedis.

Critics have blamed the VRA management for the flooding situation, alleging lack of due diligence.

However, VRA boss, Ing. Edward Ekow Obeng-Kenzo defended the Authority's actions, touting their years of experience in dealing with the situation.

In an interview on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" morning show, Ing. Obeng-Kenzo explained that the VRA had conducted a comprehensive simulation exercise with the local community before the spillage, implementing all necessary measures to respond effectively when it occurred.

He also highlighted that the Authority had assessed their data and came up with ways to address the situation, prioritizing the safety of the dam and lives.

He also argued that the VRA's staff and management have been managing the dam effectively all these years, making it unfair for anyone to call for their dismissal.

He asserted, "There's nobody in this country who has run a hydro-power plant other than people of VRA. We have all the data.

“We have run the power plant for 60 plus years. We have the expertise, so I won't say there's somebody who can say it's more expert than a VRA person who has the data, knowledge backing him to make decisions."

He further emphasized the Authority's track record in managing the dam, stating, "If someone says we don't know our work, I will say maybe the person didn't speak well."

“At least for 60 years, we have managed the dam up to this point. This is one of the best-managed dams in the world. Every five years, we have people from abroad who come to assess the dam, assess our data we use to operate the dam; always they give us high marks with small lapses on what we should do to make sure the dam is properly secured so that we don't breach the dam," he said.