Cabinet Declares Flooding a National Security Concern

In a decisive move, Cabinet has officially recognized the persistent issue of flooding in the country as a national security matter. As a result, various law enforcement agencies have been urged to play a crucial role in addressing this challenge.

To bolster enforcement efforts, Cabinet has formed a committee tasked with developing a comprehensive plan and implementing appropriate measures to strengthen the enforcement of laws governing land use and building siting.

Led by the Minister of National Security, the committee includes the Ministers of Works and Housing, Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Development, Sanitation, and Lands and Natural Resources as members.

These important developments were announced by the Minister for Works and Housing, Francis Asenso-Boakye during his address to Parliament on June 29. He highlighted the measures being undertaken by the Ministry to tackle the pressing issue of flooding in the country.

As the risk of flooding continues to rise due to factors such as inadequate drainage infrastructure, improper solid waste disposal, disregard for planning regulations, and rapid urbanization, Minister Asenso-Boakye expressed optimism that the government’s decision would pave the way for a comprehensive and holistic approach to mitigate the challenge and bring relief to the citizens.

In light of the alarming disregard for the law, with constructions taking place on waterways, the Minister reassured the public of his Ministry’s ongoing collaboration with the Ministry of National Security to seek support for local authorities in enforcing planning and building regulations.

“My Ministry will also continue engagement with the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralisation, and Rural Development to strengthen the support provided to the Assemblies in addressing the issue of buildings in waterways and drainage buffers,” Asenso-Boakye affirmed.

Story by Nana Kwaku Boffah