'We have to do soul-searching' — Mahama orders nationwide flood assessment

President John Dramani Mahama has instructed the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) flood taskforce, together with other relevant state agencies, to prepare a detailed presentation on Ghana’s flooding situation following recent floods in several parts of the country, especially Accra.

He said the report will enable government to properly identify flood-prone areas, including encroached or restricted waterways, and guide both immediate response measures and long-term solutions to the recurring challenge.

The directive was issued on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at the Accra International Airport shortly after the President returned from an official trip to Belarus.

His comments come in the wake of widespread flooding that has affected multiple communities, with Accra recording some of the most severe cases after days of heavy and sustained rainfall.

President Mahama observed that the intensity and duration of the rains, which began in May and have continued into June, have worsened the situation compared to previous years, leading to significant disruption in affected areas.

He also raised concern about the role of human activity in worsening the crisis, particularly the construction of buildings on waterways and other flood sensitive zones.

Questioning how some of these developments were approved, he called for greater scrutiny of the physical planning and development permitting system.

“But some of the houses have building permits. How did they get them? So we have to do some soul-searching,” he said.

The President stressed the need for stricter enforcement to prevent further encroachment on waterways and other vulnerable lands, warning that continued inaction would deepen the problem.

He further cautioned against reactive governance, saying authorities must move away from responding only after disasters occur.

“We shouldn't be like the vulture who says he will repair his roof when the rain stops,” he said, urging sustained and preventive action instead of temporary fixes.

President Mahama directed NADMO and partner agencies to work together to map all restricted waterways nationwide and implement corrective measures after the assessment is completed.

He also emphasised the need for stronger public education on flooding and environmental protection, urging the Government Communications Department and other relevant institutions to intensify awareness creation.

He added that effective flood control will require a combination of strict enforcement, improved urban planning, and consistent public education to reduce risks and prevent future disasters.