“Flooding must not be politicized” – Francis Asenso-Boakye urges

The Member of Parliament for Bantama, Francis Asenso-Boakye, has called for a comprehensive and non-partisan approach to tackling Ghana’s perennial flooding challenges, stressing that the problem requires long-term planning, sustained investment, and collective responsibility.

In a statement shared on his official Facebook page, the Bantama legislator identified outdated drainage systems, weak enforcement of development regulations, and poor waste disposal practices as the principal causes of flooding across the country.

According to him, many drainage structures in urban centres are no longer capable of handling the demands of rapid urbanisation and increasing rainfall intensity, leading to frequent flooding and its devastating consequences on lives, property, and infrastructure.

Hon. Asenso-Boakye also pointed to the persistent encroachment on waterways and flood-prone areas due to lax enforcement of planning regulations.

He further noted that indiscriminate disposal of waste continues to obstruct drains, preventing the smooth flow of stormwater and worsening flood situations during heavy rains.

The MP emphasized that addressing the challenge requires a three-pronged strategy involving major infrastructure investments, stricter enforcement of development controls, and responsible environmental practices by citizens.

Highlighting efforts undertaken by the administration of Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, he stated that significant resources were committed to flood mitigation measures through the National Flood Control Programme, with an investment of GH¢540 million aimed at improving drainage infrastructure and reducing the impact of floods nationwide.

Looking ahead, Hon. Asenso-Boakye proposed the creation of a dedicated Drainage Fund to ensure sustainable financing for flood-control projects across Ghana.

He suggested that a portion of the Road Maintenance Fund be allocated to support the construction, expansion, rehabilitation, and maintenance of drainage systems.

He argued that drainage infrastructure and road sustainability are closely linked, noting that failed drainage systems often accelerate road deterioration, resulting in costly repairs and significant economic losses.

“Flooding should never be politicized,” the Bantama MP stressed, urging government institutions, local authorities, and citizens to work together toward building safer and more climate-resilient communities.

His remarks come at a time when concerns over flooding continue to dominate national discussions, particularly as many communities grapple with the recurring effects of heavy rainfall and inadequate drainage infrastructure.

The call for a dedicated Drainage Fund is expected to add momentum to ongoing conversations about sustainable solutions to one of Ghana’s most pressing urban development and environmental challenges.