World Bank grants Ghana $200 million to address flooding issues.

The Ghanaian government has received a $200 million grant from the World Bank to address the country’s persistent flooding problems, according to Francis Asenso-Boakye, Minister for Works and Housing.

The Minister highlighted insufficient drainage infrastructure, poor solid waste management, improper planning practices, and rapid urbanisation as the primary factors behind the rising risk of flooding across the country.

In a statement on the floor of parliament, Mr Asenso-Boakye said his ministry is conscious of the increasing risk of flooding resulting from the adverse effects of climate change, among others.

The Greater Accra Resilient and Integrated Development (GARID) Project will use the World Bank funding to reduce flood risks and tackle solid waste management challenges in the Odaw Drainage Basin.

The Minister expressed his condolences to families who lost loved ones during the recent heavy rains, which have caused flooding in previously unaffected areas.

Mr Asenso-Boakye also noted that human activities, such as filling wetlands with construction materials and blocking drainage channels, impede the government’s efforts to combat flooding.

A cabinet sub-committee has, accordingly, been established to develop a comprehensive plan to strengthen the enforcement of laws and regulations. The committee comprises the Ministers responsible for National Security, Local Government, Sanitation and Water Resources, Works and Housing, and Lands and Natural Resources.

Share on: