Kumasi: Alhaji Ali Abdullah Barry, the Asanteman Zongo Nkosuohene, has highlighted the importance of collective responsibility in the desilting of gutters, urging citizens to unite in support of government efforts to regularly maintain clean drainage systems. This call to action comes in response to the perennial flooding that annually results in significant property damage.
According to Ghana News Agency, Alhaji Barry made these remarks during an inspection of desilting operations conducted by the Ashanti Regional office of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) across the Kumasi Metropolis. Demonstrating his commitment to the development of Asanteman, Alhaji Barry contributed an undisclosed sum to support NADMO's initiative and encourage the field team involved in the operations.
Emphasizing the importance of community involvement, Alhaji Barry stated that supporting NADMO and the government's broader efforts is crucial for addressing the root causes of flooding. "If we all do our part, especially ahead of the rainy season, we can ensure that areas with poor drainage systems are protected from devastating floods," he asserted. Alhaji Barry also reaffirmed his unwavering support for NADMO's current and future initiatives aimed at mitigating flood risks in the metropolis.
Nana Sefa Bosompem, Otumfuo Gyantuahene, who participated in the inspection, echoed the need for responsible waste disposal. He urged the public to avoid dumping refuse into gutters, warning that such behavior undermines efforts to maintain functional drainage systems.
Alhaji Abdul Nasir, Ashanti Regional NADMO Director, expressed gratitude to the Nkosuohene for his generous support and encouraged others to follow his exemplary leadership. He disclosed that NADMO plans to desilt 17 flood-prone locations within the Kumasi Metropolis as part of the ongoing initiative. Areas earmarked for desilting include Aboabo, Atafoa, Airport Roundabout, Kaase, Atonso Market, and KTI.
