Former Greater Accra Regional Minister Henry Quartey has called for a review of the composition of the government’s Anti-Flood Taskforce, arguing that key state institutions and technical experts needed to effectively address Ghana’s flooding challenges are missing from the committee.
Speaking on Eyewitness News on Wednesday, July 1, Mr. Quartey said while he respects the individuals appointed to the task force, he believes its current composition may not be sufficient to deal with the complex nature of the country’s recurring flooding problem.
President John Dramani Mahama established the Anti-Flood Taskforce to coordinate efforts aimed at tackling persistent flooding across the country. The committee is chaired by Deputy Chief of Staff Stanislav Xoese Dogbe, with Marietta Brew serving as secretary.
However, Mr. Quartey questioned the absence of some key government officials from the committee.
“I think issues about flooding, you cannot form a committee of this nature without the Minister of the Interior. You cannot form a committee of this nature without the Minister for Finance,” he said.
According to him, flooding has evolved beyond an environmental challenge and now carries significant national security and economic implications, making the inclusion of senior security and economic policymakers essential.
The former minister also proposed the inclusion of the Inspector-General of Police, the Chief of Defence Staff, officials from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), and other relevant security agencies.
Beyond government officials, he stressed the importance of involving technical experts capable of providing scientific guidance to support policymaking.
“You need a geologist. You need a hydrogeologist. You need a spatial planner. These people should be on the committee so that they can provide the technical advice, and then the politicians can drive the policy,” he stated.
Mr. Quartey maintained that while the current members are accomplished professionals, broadening the committee’s expertise would strengthen its ability to deliver lasting solutions to the country’s flooding challenges.
“With the greatest respect, the President may have to look at it again and add some flesh to the committee so they will be able to perform their duties,” he added.
His comments come in the wake of devastating floods that recently affected several parts of Greater Accra and other regions, prompting renewed calls for stronger flood prevention measures and better coordination among state institutions.
