Central Region Battles Twin Disasters as Over 4,600 Displaced; Economic Initiatives Continue
CAPE COAST, Ghana – More than 4,600 residents across Ghana’s Central Region have been displaced following a devastating combination of floods and fires over the past two weeks, according to the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO). The disasters have swept through 11 districts, including Awutu Senya East, Gomoa East, Awutu Senya West, Effutu, Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abrem, Twifo Atti Morkwaa, Hemang Lower Denkyira, Agona West, Asikuma-Odoben-Brakwa, Agona East, and the Cape Coast Metropolis.
Worst-hit communities in Cape Coast Metropolis include London Bridge, Zion, Gyegyaano, OLA Madina, Aquarium, Siwdu Estate, Antem, Ntsin, Amamoma, Ekon, and Brofoyedur, with additional suburbs like Kitsiwdo, Mempeasɛm, Nkanfoa, 3rd Ridge, Ayensu/Kwaprow, Adisadel, Pedu, and North Ola also severely affected. The Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abrem Municipality reported significant damage in Teterim, Gwira Akyinim, Pershie, Peace Avenue, Ataabadze, Mmofra Akyinim, Estate, Bronyibima, CP, Zongo, Essaman, Neizers Garden, Motel Junction, Akotobinsin, and Agona.
The disasters have resulted in the destruction of homes, loss of belongings, and disruption of livelihoods, with vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities particularly affected. NADMO has called for urgent support, highlighting the critical need for food, potable water, temporary shelter, emergency accommodation, medical services, essential health items, clothing, bedding, psychosocial support, and financial assistance for the displaced.
Tragedy struck on June 21 when an old storey building collapsed in Cape Coast’s London Bridge area following torrential rains, trapping five people. Emergency responders rescued two individuals alive, while two others were found deceased and one person was stabilized at the hospital.
Despite the ongoing crisis, the Central Region is preparing for economic recovery and growth. The Central Expo 25, a major trade, tourism, and investment fair, is scheduled for August 22-30 at Adisadel College Park in Cape Coast. Organized by the Central Regional Coordinating Council and partners, the event aims to attract investors and promote regional development.
On the international front, China has signed treaties with Central Asian nations to boost connectivity via land and air routes, seeking to strengthen economic ties and facilitate trade and investment.
Authorities and relief agencies continue to mobilize resources and support for affected communities, appealing to institutions, civil society organizations, and philanthropists to aid in the recovery efforts.