The Second Deputy Minority Chief Whip and Member of Parliament for Weija-Gbawe Constituency, Jerry Shaib Ahmed, has revealed that the recurrent flooding in the capital is a result of outdated drainage systems, poor waste management, and unregulated urban development.
Speaking on the negative impact of flood on his constituents in Parliament on Thursday, March 27, he proposed several measures to address these challenges and mitigate the impact of flooding in Accra.
He called for an upgrade and expansion of drainage systems, arguing that many of the existing systems in Greater Accra are outdated and inefficient.
He urged the government to invest in modern infrastructure capable of handling heavy rainfall to prevent the devastating effects of flooding on communities.
The MP also emphasized the need for improved waste management, explaining that solid waste, particularly plastic waste, often blocks drains and water channels, worsening the flooding situation.
He recommended strengthening waste collection systems and increasing public education on proper waste disposal to reduce the accumulation of waste in drainage systems.
He stressed the need for public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on the causes of flooding and how they can help prevent it.
He pointed out that many people unknowingly contribute to flooding by disposing of waste improperly and engaging in illegal construction on waterways, which obstructs the natural flow of water.
He emphasized the importance of stronger collaboration between the central government and local authorities in tackling the flooding menace.
Mr. Ahmed Shaib urged agencies such as the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council and the Ga South Municipal Assembly to take a more active role in flood prevention and control efforts.
He also called for sustainable urban planning, stating that as Accra’s population continues to grow, urban development must be done with future flood risks in mind.
He urged the government to work with urban planners to develop long-term strategies that incorporate flood control measures into the city’s expansion plans.
While acknowledging the efforts of the National Disaster Management Organization (NaDMO), Mr. Ahmed Shaib insisted that more needs to be done to prevent flooding rather than just responding to its effects.
He urged the government to provide financial aid to flood victims in Kele and other affected areas to help them rebuild their homes and restore critical infrastructure.
