The Vice President, Her Excellency Prof. Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang, has visited Okuma-Akura to mourn the loss of 16 lives in a recent canoe accident that occurred in the Krachi West Municipality of the Oti Region.
On Saturday, October 11, 2025, around 20 people, including children, were traveling to Debume for funeral when the canoe they were in capsized.
While 8 individuals were rescued, sadly, 16 lives were lost.
Accompanying the Vice President were the Minister of Transport, Joseph Bukhari Nikpe, the Director General of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), Major Dr Kuyon, and other members of her entourage.
During her address to the community, she expressed her deepest condolences to the bereaved families, describing the loss of 16 lives as a national tragedy.
She urged canoe and boat operators in the area to adhere to safety protocols while traveling on the Volta Lake to prevent future disasters.
In her effort to support the affected families, the Vice President presented 200 life jackets, mosquito nets, cooking oil, 100 bags of rice, second-hand clothing, and a monetary donation of GH¢200,000 to help cover funeral expenses.
Minister of Transport Joseph Nikpe outlined the ministry’s plans to prevent future incidents, including the training and deployment of a rapid response team to various island communities to promote adherence to safety protocols and encourage the use of life jackets while using the Volta Lake for transportation.
He also announced the establishment of an operation center in Kpando-Torkor, which will focus on education and enforcement of safety measures.
The Member of Parliament for Krachi West, Helen Adwodwa Ntoso, extended her condolences to the bereaved families and urged them to remain calm, assuring them that the government is implementing measures to safeguard lives on the lake.
She acknowledged that despite the tragedy, the community would continue to travel on the river and emphasized the importance of adhering to safety guidelines.
Additionally, the Oti Regional Minister, John Kwadwo Gyapong, expressed gratitude for the Vice President’s visit following the disaster, stating that her presence would bring comfort to the affected families.
Source: Obrempongba K. Owusu
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