For decades, Accra has grappled with devastating annual floods, a crisis that has worsened under the current administration. Former Local Government Minister and Member of Parliament (MP) for Techiman South Constituency, Martin Adjei-Mensah Korsah, has sharply criticized the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government’s handling of the capital’s flooding, describing their approach as lazy, inconsistent, and devoid of meaningful action. In contrast, he highlights the New Patriotic Party (NPP)’s record—particularly under former President John Mahama’s administration—as a model of proactive policy-making, infrastructure development, and international collaboration to mitigate the crisis.
A Policy Void: Why the NDC Lacks a Comprehensive Flood Management Strategy
One of the most glaring failures of the NDC government, according to Korsah, is the absence of a structured, long-term flood management policy. Unlike its predecessor, which established the Greater Accra Resilient and Integrated Development (GARID) project, the current administration has failed to implement a cohesive strategy to address the root causes of flooding in Accra.
The GARID project, funded by the World Bank to the tune of $350 million, was the first and only government-led initiative to systematically tackle flooding in the city. It involved dredging the Odaw River, constructing storm drains, and improving drainage systems in high-risk areas such as Kaneshie, Paloma, and BoG quarters. The project was designed to prevent waterlogging by ensuring efficient water flow from the Odaw River basin, which is fed by multiple tributaries that contribute to annual floods.
Korsah emphasizes that negligence in maintaining these tributaries has led to compromised water flow, exacerbating flooding. He argues that periodic dredging of the Odaw River—a key component of the GARID project—was essential to prevent upstream waterlogging. Without such interventions, floodwaters inevitably return, causing further destruction.
The World Bank’s Unspent Funds: A Stain on Government Accountability
Despite the $350 million allocated for GARID, only a fraction of the funds were utilized under the NPP administration. However, since the NDC took over, $200 million remains unspent, a fact acknowledged by Parliament’s relevant committee. Korsah questions why this critical infrastructure project has stalled, particularly when World Bank officials have confirmed no financial discrepancies—only a lack of implementation.
The NDC government has cited squatters occupying project sites as a major obstacle, but Korsah dismisses this as an excuse rather than a genuine challenge. He argues that governments have the authority to relocate encroachers when national development is at stake. “Why can’t the full force of the state be brought to bear on those obstructing a project of far-reaching consequence?” he asks, highlighting the failure of leadership in prioritizing public welfare over political convenience.
Human Cost of Inaction: Lives Lost and Health System Collapse
Beyond infrastructure failures, Korsah points to the human tragedy unfolding due to the government’s inaction. During a recent visit with former Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, he witnessed dead bodies lying uncollected in flood-affected areas—a stark reminder of the government’s neglect.
He urges the NDC to fulfill its campaign promises, particularly those made by former President John Mahama during his tenure. “People are dying,” Korsah warns, “this is not the time for lessons on flooding—it is time for action.”
The healthcare system, already under immense pressure, is further strained by flood-related diseases and disruptions. The Ghana Productive Safety Net (GPSN), which includes the School Feeding Program, is at risk of collapse due to economic mismanagement and policy inconsistencies. Korsah warns that without urgent intervention, these social safety nets could fail, leaving vulnerable populations without basic support.
The NPP’s Legacy: Agenda 111 and Sustainable Development
To underscore the NDC’s shortcomings, Korsah contrasts the NPP’s achievements, particularly the Agenda 111 initiative. This healthcare reform program aimed to decentralize medical services, reducing pressure on referral hospitals and improving access to quality healthcare across the country.
Under the NPP, 111 health facilities were upgraded, including regional hospitals, polyclinics, and community health centers. These investments were part of a broader vision to transform Ghana’s healthcare system, ensuring equitable access and reducing maternal and child mortality rates.
Korsah argues that no comparable initiative has been launched by the NDC, leaving Ghanaians without the same level of development and service delivery. “To see the two parties as equal in terms of development and life-changing projects is untrue,” he states, emphasizing the NPP’s track record of execution.
A Call for Accountability and Urgent Reform
The flooding crisis in Accra is not merely an environmental issue—it is a governance failure. Korsah’s critique extends beyond infrastructure neglect to policy paralysis, financial mismanagement, and a lack of urgency in addressing national challenges.
He calls on the NDC government to:
1. Resume and complete the GARID project to prevent future floods.
2. Enforce evictions of squatters obstructing critical development sites.
3. Reinstate and expand Agenda 111 to strengthen healthcare infrastructure.
4. Ensure the sustainability of social programs like the School Feeding Project to protect vulnerable populations.
“We shall no longer watch as NDC throws dust into the eyes of Ghanaians,” Korsah declares. “In terms of development and life-changing projects, NDC comes nowhere near the NPP. The time for empty promises is over—Ghana deserves solutions.”
The flooding crisis in Accra is a warning sign of deeper systemic failures. Until the government prioritizes long-term solutions over short-term politics, the suffering of Ghanaians will continue—and the cost will be measured not just in damaged property, but in lost lives and shattered futures.
