The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) has spent GHC 87,625,090.96 to remove 21,265 tree stumps from the Volta Lake, the country’s largest inland waterway.
This project, conducted by Kete Krachi Timber Recovery (KKTR) Ltd. between 2019 and 2023, aimed to improve waterway safety by eliminating tree stumps that pose hazards to navigation.
According to the Auditor General’s performance report on inland water transport safety, the project covered five major waterways: Yeji–Mankango, Yeji–Awujakope, Dambai-Njare, Bridge Ano–Ntoaboma Crossing, and Agordeke. The audit, which took place between January and March 2024, revealed that out of the 21,268 identified tree stumps, 21,265 were successfully removed. The remaining three tree stumps on the Yeji–Mankango route were left due to religious reasons.
Breaking down the costs:
- In 2019, GMA spent GHC 9,587,500 to remove 3,550 tree stumps from the Yeji–Mankango waterway.
- In 2020, GHC 11,484,306 was used to remove 4,723 stumps on the Yeji–Awujakope route.
- The Dambai-Njare stretch saw 10,499 stumps removed in 2021 at a cost of GHC 19,971,372.96.
- In 2022, GHC 13,138,488 was spent to remove 1,179 stumps from the Bridge Ano–Ntoaboma crossing.
- The highest expenditure occurred in 2023, with GHC 33,443,424 used to remove 1,317 stumps in the Agordeke area.
The primary goal of this project was to reduce accidents on the lake, as tree stumps have been a major cause of mishaps, resulting in the loss of lives and goods. Additionally, adverse weather conditions have also contributed to accidents on the lake.
Despite the significant progress, the Auditor General’s report highlighted that some tree stumps still remain, posing a continued risk to commuters. The report recommended that GMA expedite the assessment and removal of the remaining tree stumps to enhance navigation safety.
Many travelers on the Volta Lake continue to use traditional watercraft, which are vulnerable to accidents due to the presence of tree stumps and the lack of modern navigation technology. The Auditor General’s office has urged GMA to prioritize safety and ensure the complete removal of all hazardous obstacles in the waterway.
