BY: Kwadwo Ofosu Baffoe | ignewss — Techiman, Ghana
The Executive Director of the Alliance for Sustainable Development and Participatory Governance (ASDPG), Nana Obiri-Korang Antwi-Boasiako, has called on Ghanaians to desist from constructing buildings on waterways, warning that the practice is a major contributor to the increasing incidence of flooding across the country.
Speaking on the issue, the Techiman-based governance and development advocate urged Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), in collaboration with other relevant state institutions, to strictly enforce spatial planning and building regulations to prevent further encroachment on natural drainage channels.
According to him, the indiscriminate construction of structures on waterways obstructs the natural flow of stormwater during heavy rainfall, resulting in recurrent flooding that destroys lives, properties and public infrastructure.
Nana Obiri-Korang Antwi-Boasiako also encouraged homeowners and communities to promote greener environments by planting grass, trees and other vegetation around their homes and public spaces.
He explained that green spaces enhance water infiltration, reduce surface runoff and improve the environment’s natural ability to manage excess rainwater, thereby helping to minimise the risk of flooding.
The ASDPG executive director stressed that flood prevention requires a collective national effort and urged citizens to support government initiatives by complying with environmental laws and approved building regulations.
He noted that protecting waterways, preserving green spaces and promoting responsible land use are essential steps towards building safer, more climate-resilient communities capable of withstanding the growing impact of extreme weather events.