President John Mahama has issued a strong warning regarding illegal construction on waterways, citing its significant role in the recurrent flooding that devastates communities across the country. During his speech at the Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations in Accra on March 31, 2025, Mahama emphasized the need for urgent action as the rainy season approaches.
He pointed out that improper construction, especially on riverbanks, leads to blockages, causing rivers to overflow and resulting in destructive floods. “When the rivers have nowhere to go, they back up, and the result is destructive flooding,” President Mahama stated.
The President also called attention to the involvement of some private developers and traditional authorities, who collaborate to turn water retention areas and protected lands into construction zones. Mahama made it clear that these illegal structures would be demolished: “Those structures will be pulled down. We will not allow a few selfish individuals to endanger the lives and livelihoods of countless others.”
In light of this, the government has established the National Taskforce on Flood Control. While the taskforce has not yet commenced demolitions, its initial focus will be on clearing blocked drainage systems in flood-prone areas.
Mahama reaffirmed his commitment to enforcing the law and ensuring accountability for those who violate planning and environmental regulations. He urged citizens to remain vigilant and take collective responsibility in addressing flooding, as it is both a governmental and societal issue.
