The Mepe Development Association (MDA) has condemned comments by the Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, Freda Prempeh, that sought to blame victims of the Akosombo Dam spillage for their predicament.
The Minister had blamed the indigenes of Mepe and other downstream communities along the Volta River for not heeding warnings to evacuate before the spillage.
The MDA, representing the affected community, expressed outrage at the Minister’s claims and demanded answers regarding the alleged simulation exercise conducted by the Volta River Authority (VRA) and the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO).
The association questioned the lack of engagement with key stakeholders in Mepe and challenged the authenticity of the simulation exercise.
Additionally, the MDA highlighted the lack of official temporary shelter facilities provided by the state for evacuees, leading the community leaders to establish makeshift safe-havens.
They criticized the insufficient sanitation facilities, citing the case of St. Kizito Secondary Technical School, which houses over 1,300 displaced persons but has only six mobile toilets.
“The Minister must acknowledge the looming health crisis, contamination of water sources, and unsanitary conditions faced by the flood victims,” stated Kojo Mawulenu Fabian, Chairman of MDA. “We urge state officials to refrain from blaming the victims and take responsibility for this man-made disaster.”
The Mepe Development Association called on Freda Prempeh to apologize unreservedly to the Chiefs and people of Mepe for her comments, emphasizing the need for empathy and respect during these challenging times.
The Mepe community continues to grapple with the aftermath of the flood, emphasizing the importance of government support and understanding in their recovery efforts.