President John Mahama has issued a stern warning to Ghanaians, particularly those in urban areas, to stop constructing buildings on waterways. This call to action comes as the country prepares for the rainy season, and the threat of flooding looms large.

Speaking at the Eid al-Fitr ceremony at the Black Star Square in Accra, President Mahama emphasized the devastating consequences of illegal construction on waterways. “People have built and blocked the rivers, and so the rivers have nowhere to go but to back up,” he said, highlighting the reckless disregard for planning regulations and environmental safety.

The President’s warning is timely, given Ghana’s history of severe flooding incidents. In June 2015, Accra witnessed one of its most devastating floods and fire disasters, claiming over 150 lives and displacing thousands. The floods were partly caused by the overflowing of the Odaw River, exacerbated by illegal construction activities along its banks.

President Mahama stressed that sustainable development practices and addressing infrastructure challenges, including building proper drainage systems, are crucial to preventing such disasters. He urged traditional leaders to set an example and warned that the law will be enforced against those who flout it.

The President’s call to action echoes similar concerns raised by other leaders, including the Tema West Municipal Chief Executive, Felicia Edem Attipoe, who recently urged residents to refrain from building on waterways.