Bagre Dam spillage puts Upper East farmers on alert

Farmers along the Kubore River in the Upper East Region have been placed on high alert following confirmation that Burkina Faso’s state-owned electricity company, SONABEL, is expected to begin controlled spillage from the Bagre Dam on August 11, 2026, if water levels reach the required threshold.

The announcement, communicated through Ghana’s Water Resources Commission (WRC), has heightened anxiety among farming communities that have repeatedly suffered flood-related losses from previous Bagre Dam spillages.

Speaking to journalist Ibrahim Abode, some farmers in the Kubore area said they are closely monitoring the river and are prepared to abandon their farms if water levels begin to rise significantly.

“We are aware that the water level is likely to increase because of the heavy rains in recent days. If we notice a significant rise in the river, we will immediately leave our farms to ensure our safety,” a farmer, Atubiga, said.

According to the WRC, information received from SONABEL indicates that the Bagre Dam's reservoir level stood at 232.93 metres as of Tuesday, August 4, 2026, representing 62.77 per cent of its storage capacity. The Commission said the controlled spillage would commence only if the water level reaches the trigger point of 234.00 metres.

The Commission has advised residents, farmers and communities along the White Volta River and its tributaries to remain vigilant, follow safety guidelines and take the necessary precautionary measures ahead of the possible spillage.

The annual release of excess water from the Bagre Dam has, over the years, triggered severe flooding across parts of northern Ghana, destroying farms, homes and other property while disrupting the livelihoods of thousands of residents.

The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), local authorities and other relevant agencies are expected to continue monitoring the situation and provide timely updates as the anticipated spillage date approaches.

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