Critical flood mitigation projects in Accra have stalled due to squatters and alleged criminal groups. These groups occupy sites earmarked for flood control works in parts of the capital. Former Deputy Local Government Minister, Martin Adjei-Mensah Korsah, confirmed these delays.
Contractors and project officials face significant difficulties accessing specific locations. These areas are vital for drainage and flood prevention interventions. This situation directly affects efforts to address persistent flooding in Accra and surrounding communities. The delays are attributed to ground challenges, not financial constraints.
The Greater Accra Resilient and Integrated Development (GARID) programme funds these projects. The World Bank supports GARID to strengthen flood risk management. Its goal is to improve resilience in vulnerable communities across the Greater Accra Region. Accra experiences chronic flooding, costing the economy millions through lost productivity and infrastructure damage annually. This current delay worsens the city's vulnerability during heavy rainy seasons.
Mr. Korsah spoke on Citi FM on June 10, 2026. He explained that Parliament’s Local Government and Rural Development Committee discussed the delays with the Ministry and World Bank officials. The committee learned that squatters, some armed with offensive weapons, have taken over project sites. This makes it unsafe for contractors and officials to operate. “We were made to understand it has stalled because they’re having challenges getting squatters,” Mr. Korsah stated.
The former Minister highlighted serious concerns about enforcement of national projects. This is despite the crucial national importance of the flood control programme. The continued presence of these groups suggests a gap in security and urban management. It could also deter future investment in critical infrastructure. Policymakers must address these security issues to ensure timely project completion. Failing to do so will expose Accra to continued flood risks and economic disruption.
The government's response to this challenge will be closely watched. Success depends on firm action to secure project sites. This will allow the GARID programme to proceed as planned. Otherwise, Accra will continue to suffer from regular flood disasters. This will burden residents and businesses. It will also undermine Ghana’s broader economic development.