The World Health Organization (WHO) is calling for immediate government intervention to avert a possible outbreak of diseases in the Lower Volta area following the spillage of the Akosombo Dam.

According to WHO, the devastating nature of the disaster requires immediate medical support.

Speaking to journalists after donating some medical supplies to the Health Ministry, Country Representative for WHO, Prof Francis Kasolo, says the spillage may come with its attendant outbreaks.

Prof Francis Kasolo, explained that as part of the assessment of the current situations in the flooded areas the flooding of mortuaries and latrines can result in serious health implications.

And to forestall that, the government need commodities such as intravenous fluids, antibiotics deployed in these areas so that should any condition related to this contamination of this water source emerge, government will be able to action them immediately.

Currently, a lot of communities have been displaced in the district. Once communities are displaced, they will not have access to the regular facilities such as portable water, sanitary facilities, and routine health services.

On September 15, 2023, the Volta River Authority started a controlled spill from the Akosombo and Kpong Dams. 

This was due to the heavy rainfall in the Volta River catchment, resulting in a fast rise in the water level at Akosombo Dam.  

The spill was, therefore, necessary to prevent the overtopping of the dam and to protect the dam’s integrity.

STORY: Peter Quansah

PHOTO: CitiNewsRoom