Agortime-Ziope: Keyime Dam in the Agortime-Ziope District of the Volta Region experienced a collapse on Monday evening following a downpour at its source. This marks the second time the dam, originally constructed in 1963, has succumbed to such circumstances, with the first incident occurring in October 1995.
According to Ghana News Agency, Torgbui Satsi III, Chief of the nearby farming community of Adzonkor, highlighted a defect in the canal and spillage areas identified four years ago. Despite recognizing the issue, financial constraints hindered necessary repairs, as proceeds from the dam had been monopolized by a few individuals. Rehabilitation efforts were made in 2016, but Torgbui Satsi III expressed skepticism about government intervention for future repairs.
Mr. Moses Awaga, the Assemblyman for the Adzonkor Electoral Area, confirmed the incident, further emphasizing the gravity of the situation. Mr. Alfred Odikro Klu, the District Chief Executive for Agortime-Ziope District, also verified the collapse, stating his presence at the dam site during the early hours of Tuesday.
Keyime Dam, situated in the Ziope Traditional Area, was a vital resource for over 42 towns and villages. Its previous collapse in 1995 led to a reconstruction project awarded by the Ministry of Food and Agriculture in December 2014, with work commencing in January 2015. The dam's significance extended beyond providing drinking water; it bolstered economic activities, fostering a thriving fishing industry and supporting irrigation for off-season farming. Local farmers relied on the dam to cultivate high-demand crops such as tomatoes, okro, and pepper.
In light of the recent collapse, residents have appealed to the government for assistance in rehabilitating the dam, recognizing its crucial role in sustaining their livelihoods and community development.
