Former Greater Accra Regional Minister Henry Quartey has called for the expansion of the government’s Anti-Flood Taskforce, saying a broader mix of security officials, financial policymakers and technical experts is needed to effectively tackle Ghana’s recurring flooding challenges.
Speaking on Eyewitness News on Wednesday, July 1, Mr. Quartey said the committee, established by President John Dramani Mahama to coordinate the country’s flood response, should be strengthened to reflect the complexity of the problem.
He argued that flooding has become a national security and economic issue and therefore requires the participation of key government institutions responsible for disaster management, security and resource mobilisation.
Mr. Quartey expressed concern over the absence of the Minister for the Interior and the Minister for Finance from the taskforce, insisting their involvement would enhance the committee’s effectiveness.
He also recommended the inclusion of the Inspector-General of Police, the Chief of Defence Staff, officials from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), and other security agencies to improve coordination during emergencies.
Beyond government representation, the former minister stressed the need for technical expertise, proposing that geologists, hydrogeologists and spatial planners be appointed to provide scientific advice to guide policy decisions and long-term flood mitigation strategies.
While acknowledging the competence of the current members, Mr. Quartey said expanding the taskforce’s membership would equip it with the expertise required to deliver sustainable solutions to Ghana’s perennial flooding problem.
His comments come in the aftermath of recent floods that affected several communities in Greater Accra and other parts of the country, renewing calls for stronger collaboration and a more comprehensive approach to flood prevention and disaster management.
