Tidal waves: No need for state of emergency in Keta

The Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has stated that the government does not deem it necessary to declare a state of emergency in Keta at this time, despite severe flooding that has displaced hundreds of residents.

According to him, while the situation is devastating, the focus should be on long-term protective measures rather than an emergency declaration.

His comments follow a visit by President John Dramani Mahama and key ministers to the Ketu South Constituency, where communities such as Salakope, Amutinu, and Agavedzi have been badly affected by flooding.

Speaking on Eyewitness News on Thursday, March 6, 2025, Agbodza stressed the need for sustainable solutions.

“I don’t know what goes into the declaration of a state of emergency. Of course, what I saw there was devastating, but I think the best thing we can do for the people living there is to go ahead and do the sea defence to protect them. That, I believe, I can support any initiative along that path,” he stated.

He further assured that the government is committed to addressing the crisis.

“There are a series of things the government is going to do. All the key ministers have been there, so we are going to further discuss the other support system we need to give the people while we find a solution to solve the problem,” he added.

Meanwhile, President John Mahama has directed Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson to allocate funds for the commencement of phase two of the Blekusu Sea Defence Project to prevent future flooding.

The President made this directive during a visit to Agavedzi in the Volta Region, where he assessed the extent of destruction caused by tidal waves.

—citinewsroom