President John Dramani Mahama has directed the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and other relevant state agencies to undertake a comprehensive mapping of flood-prone areas across the country following recent flooding incidents, particularly in Accra.
The directive, issued on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, comes in response to widespread flooding in several communities after days of heavy and sustained rainfall, which has caused significant disruption to residents and businesses.
Speaking shortly after returning from an official visit to Belarus, President Mahama emphasised the need for a coordinated national response to address the recurring challenge of flooding.
He said the exercise would help government identify critical risk zones, including waterways and areas where unauthorised construction has taken place, and guide both immediate and long-term interventions.
According to the President, the intensity of this year’s rains, which began in May and have continued into June, has worsened the situation compared to previous years, leaving parts of the capital severely affected.
He expressed concern about human activities contributing to the problem, particularly the construction of buildings in waterways and other vulnerable areas.
“But some of the houses have building permits. How did they get them? So we have to do some soul-searching,” he stated, raising questions about lapses in the enforcement of planning regulations.
President Mahama called for greater accountability in physical planning and development control, urging authorities to take firm action against encroachment on waterways and flood-prone lands.
He cautioned against the country’s tendency to respond to flooding only after disasters occur, stressing the importance of proactive and sustained measures.
“We shouldn’t be like the vulture who says he will repair his roof when the rain stops,” he said, underscoring the need for long-term solutions.
The President further tasked NADMO and partner agencies to collaborate in identifying all restricted waterways nationwide and to implement corrective measures once the assessment is completed.
He also highlighted the role of public education in mitigating flooding risks, calling on the Government Communications Department and other institutions to intensify awareness campaigns on environmental management.
President Mahama noted that a combination of strict enforcement of regulations, improved infrastructure planning and sustained public education would be key to reducing the impact of flooding and preventing future occurrences.
