Salakope: The government has pledged to provide temporary structures and psychological support to victims of the recent tidal wave disaster in the Salakope, Amutsinu, and Agavedzi communities. The move is part of the government's primary concern to offer hope and courage to those affected by the situation, which displaced hundreds of residents along the coast.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. James Gunu, the Volta Regional Minister, emphasized that the government would always prioritize tidal wave victims and provide the necessary assistance to alleviate their plights. He stated, "This is the time we need to show love and care to our beloved people of Salakope, Agavedzi, and Amutsinu communities, we are always there for them, even in opposition president Mahama and NDC have consistently provided a lot of support to the victims."
Mr. Gunu acknowledged the significant extent and degree of damages caused by the tidal wave, emphasizing the need for immediate attention to prevent further destruction. He mentioned that the government plans to partner with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other technical organizations to conduct impact assessments and develop lasting solutions such as a sea defense wall and dredging the sea.
He further stated, "We need to sympathize with our people, climate change is real, and it takes time and technology to deal with associate problems with it, we need to work together and see the lasting solution to this natural disaster." Mr. Gunu also appealed to philanthropists, corporate entities, and well-meaning individuals to partner with the government to address the pressing problems and urged residents to avoid activities like sand winning along the coast, which may pose additional risks.
Torgbui Emmanuel Anumu-Tettey, the Chief Fisherman at Salakope, disclosed to the GNA that the devastation has severely impacted businesses, resulting in hardship and hunger. He expressed, "Our houses are in the sea, our fishing nets have been damaged due to a lot of debris in the sea, we have no food, no place to sleep, we need help or else all of us will die slowly."
He suggested that while a sea defense wall is essential, experiences gathered indicate that the government should also consider dredging the sea to reclaim land for the communities. Meanwhile, the Environmental Protection Agency, led by CEO Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse, visited the affected area and pledged that necessary efforts would be implemented for a lasting solution to the challenge.
Some victims engaged by GNA expressed hope that the government would provide a solution to their challenges, enabling businesses to resume and operate normally.
