Poor leadership is the primary cause of Accra's recurring deadly floods, according to an analysis by Kwaku Antwi-Boasiako. This argument directly challenges the common blame placed on citizens for dumping refuse into drains.
The author states that governments under President Mahama and President Akufo-Addo have failed to implement basic measures to prevent flooding. This inaction has led to devastating consequences, including the deaths of 150 citizens on June 3, 2015, and repeated disasters. The article highlights a significant difference in approach compared to cities in the UK, where local councils actively manage waste and urban development.
Ghana's economic and political landscape has seen repeated cycles of infrastructure challenges. Despite significant national budgets allocated to ministries including sanitation and water, the capital city, Accra, continues to suffer from inadequate drainage and waste management systems. This persistent problem underscores a broader issue of governance effectiveness and the prioritization of public welfare. Historical data from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) consistently points to flooding as a major threat, impacting thousands of livelihoods annually.
Kwaku Antwi-Boasiako, in his commentary, argues that local councils possess the mandate and power to enact and enforce by-laws. He contrasts this with the perceived inaction of Ghanaian leaders, who he believes enjoy the perks of power without delivering basic services. "If they can’t do the work, they should resign and retire," he asserts.
The implications of continued flooding are significant. Beyond the immediate human tragedy, it causes substantial economic losses due to damaged property and disrupted businesses. Decisions made or not made by central government and district assemblies will directly impact investor confidence and the overall cost of doing business in Accra. The author's proposed solutions, such as mandatory household bins funded by property rates and proactive clearing of waterways, represent a call for decisive action and effective governance.
Further analysis from the Ghana Statistical Service indicates that urban areas like Accra are vulnerable to extreme weather events, exacerbated by rapid urbanization and informal settlements. The effectiveness of existing urban planning regulations and their enforcement remains a critical factor in mitigating these risks. The failure to address such fundamental issues raises questions about the efficient use of public funds and the long-term sustainability of urban development in Ghana.
The author's strong condemnation suggests a deep frustration with the status quo. He points to the example of Leicester City Council in the UK, which maintains a clean city through robust refuse collection services funded by council tax. He advocates for similar measures in Ghana, emphasizing that these are not complex solutions but rather fundamental responsibilities of governing bodies. The article implies that a lack of political will and accountability are the true culprits behind Accra's annual inundation.
The effectiveness of proposed by-laws for household waste bins and the utilization of annual property rates for refuse collection are key areas to watch. The proactive clearing of all waterways and illegal construction sites, implemented as an all-year-round exercise, would mark a significant shift in approach. Furthermore, the prosecution and auctioning of properties of individuals who build on waterways are proposed as strong deterrents. The author calls for a complete overhaul of the current approach, demanding that leaders who fail to act should step down.