The President of the Progressive Youth Federation Ghana, Justice Yeboah, has proposed a series of measures aimed at addressing the persistent flooding that affects parts of Accra during the rainy season.
According to him, introducing a national policy on rainwater harvesting for households in the capital and encouraging the planting of grass along drainage systems could significantly reduce the impact of flooding.
Speaking on the recurring floods in Accra, Yeboah described the capital as a naturally flood-prone area, explaining that many of its large streams have gradually been converted into drains and gutters, reducing their capacity to channel stormwater effectively.
He further noted that runoff from the Akuapem Range eventually flows into Accra, placing enormous pressure on the city’s drainage infrastructure.
“Accra itself is a flood-prone area. Most of the water from the Akuapem Range ends up in the city, and because many natural streams have been turned into gutters, the drainage system struggles to contain the volume of water, resulting in perennial flooding,” he said.
To address the situation, Yeboah called on the government to introduce a policy requiring every household in Accra to harvest rainwater from rooftops.
He explained that rainwater falling directly from roofs gathers significant force, picking up dust and other sediments before carrying them into drains, where they accumulate and reduce the drains’ capacity.
He noted that harvested rainwater could be stored and used for domestic purposes such as washing, cleaning and other household activities.
“Accra is already experiencing water shortages. Harvesting rainwater will not only reduce the amount of runoff entering drains but will also provide an alternative source of water for households,” he stated.
Yeboah also proposed that the government make it compulsory for property owners to plant grass along the sides of drainage systems.
According to him, vegetation would help trap soil and sediments before they are washed into drains during heavy rainfall.
He argued that many drains become choked with sand not because residents deliberately dump soil into them, but because stormwater erodes loose earth and transports it into the drainage channels.
“If grass is planted around drains, it will reduce soil erosion and prevent large amounts of sand from being washed into the drainage systems. This will help keep the drains clear and improve the flow of water during heavy rains,” he explained.
Yeboah expressed optimism that the implementation of these measures would significantly reduce the recurring floods that continue to affect lives and property in Accra, while also contributing to improved water conservation and environmental management.
