The Regional Director of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), Mrs. Rebecca Assibi Akolgo, has issued an urgent call for residents and farmers living along the White Volta to evacuate to higher ground as the annual spillage from the Bagre Dam in Burkina Faso is set to commence on Monday, August 25, 2025.
This announcement comes after the earlier than initially scheduled, which was on 27 August 2025, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
In an exclusive interview with Word news outlets in Bolgatanga, Mrs. Akolgo explained that the decision to accelerate the spillage was prompted by rapidly rising water levels at the Bagre Dam. The agency managing the dam, SONABEL, reported a concerning increase in water levels, which rose from 233.98 meters to 234.27 meters.
This significant change necessitates immediate action to mitigate potential risks associated with flooding.NADMO, in concert with the Ministry of Food and Agriculture and the Ghana Water Resource Commission, has been proactively engaging with communities to raise awareness about the implications of the Bagre Dam spillage.
The agency has focused on two primary concerns: the potential flooding of farmlands and the resulting decrease in agricultural productivity.
These issues could lead to severe food insecurity in the affected areas, particularly for communities that rely heavily on farming for their livelihoods.Mrs. Akolgo emphasized that previous spillage events have often led to the displacement of residents.
She strongly advised farmers and residents to evacuate to safe locations before and during the spillage, assuring them that they would be able to return to their homes and farmlands once conditions are safe.
However, she also cautioned those who have not yet harvested their crops against attempting to do so during this period. Crossing the White Volta to collect produce poses significant risks, as the excessive floodwaters could not only destroy crops but also endanger lives.
The annual Bagre Dam spillage is a well-known phenomenon in the region, and NADMO has previously provided preventive education to residents and farmers along the White Volta. With the confirmed spillage date now set,
Mrs. Akolgo reiterated the critical importance of taking precautions and adhering to evacuation advice.In light of the challenges posed by the upcoming spillage, the government has put several plans in place to support those who will be severely affected.
Mrs. Akolgo outlined that the government is committed to compensating farmers and residents who may lose their livelihoods due to flooding. This support includes the provision of essential farming tools, seedlings for dry season farming, and relief items such as rice, maize, mattresses, cooking oil, and roofing sheets.Local leaders and community organizations are also mobilizing to assist with the evacuation process and provide support to those in need.
As the date approaches, NADMO , the Ministry of Food and Agriculture and the Ghana Water Resource Commission team continues to monitor the situation closely, collaborating with various stakeholders to ensure a coordinated response to the impending spillage.
The agency urges all residents along the White Volta to heed warnings and take necessary precautions to safeguard their lives and property.In conclusion, while the Bagre Dam spillage poses significant challenges, the combined efforts of NADMO, the government, and local communities aim to mitigate the impact and support those affected. The situation serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and community resilience in the face of natural disasters.
Source: mywordfmonline.com/ Gaspard Ayuureneeya Adongo