The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) have initiated dredging efforts following recent flood damage at the university. This urgent action comes after a preliminary assessment identified significant wetland encroachment and a blocked natural stream channel as primary causes of the Wewe River's overflow.
NADMO's investigation, conducted after heavy rainfall in Kumasi, revealed that human activities restricted the river's ability to discharge excess water. Portions of wetland reserves behind the university's boundary wall had been altered and filled. This interference with natural water movement increased flood risks during intense downpours.
This incident highlights Ghana's broader challenge with urban development encroaching on vital natural flood buffers. Rapid urbanisation often converts wetlands and floodplains into commercial or residential areas. This practice undermines natural drainage systems, exacerbating flood risks in Ghanaian cities. Data shows that preserving such areas is crucial for climate resilience.
Mr. Charles Oppong, Deputy Ashanti Regional Director of NADMO, confirmed the findings during a site inspection. He stated, “Behind sections of the KNUST wall, there has been some encroachment and some wetland reserves have been filled.” Mr. Oppong also noted that the stream opposite the Ahinsan Police Post was blocked, further hindering water flow.
The dredging works will restore the river’s carrying capacity and improve water flow. This collaborative project involves KNUST management, the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council, and NADMO. Officials expect the efforts to mitigate future flooding, protecting university infrastructure and nearby communities from economic disruption.
Prof. Divine Ahadzie, a KNUST lecturer and flood risk expert, emphasised the importance of maintaining natural floodplains. He said the university's preserved floodplain largely met its purpose by containing excess water. This averted worse damage to developed areas of the campus.
Prof. Ahadzie added that the incident serves as a critical lesson for urban planners across Ghana. Developing on floodplains and wetlands removes natural barriers. This practice ensures that water has nowhere safe to spread during heavy rains, leading to more destructive flooding.
Accra, for example, faces similar challenges with seasonal flooding often linked to clogged drains and building on waterways. The cost of flood damage in Ghana runs into millions of GHS annually, affecting livelihoods and infrastructure investments. Effective urban planning, including the protection of natural drainage systems, is vital.
The current dredging operations are removing accumulated sediment and debris. This will widen sections of the river channel, allowing for better water management. Mr. Oppong assured the public that the situation is under control, with immediate improvements in water flow already observable.
Maintaining these ecological buffers is not just an environmental concern; it is an economic imperative. Preserving wetlands and floodplains reduces the financial burden of disaster recovery. It also ensures the long-term stability and safety of urban environments like the KNUST campus.