By Collins Sarkodieh 
Handling the perennial flooding in the capital city now requires a tough and uncompromising approach from the state. Following an extensive aerial inspection over Accra, President John Dramani Mahama has officially ordered the immediate removal of all buildings blocking natural drainage channels.
The flyover tour took place on Monday, June 29, 2026, after a massive downpour dropped about 140 millimetres of rain in a single day. This extreme weather far exceeded last year’s daily peak of 56 millimetres, proving that our changing climate patterns are becoming highly dangerous.
Data from the Ghana Meteorological Agency shows a terrifying annual increase in rainfall over the past three years. June 2024 recorded 85 millimetres of rain, June 2025 jumped to 172 millimetres, and June 2026 has skyrocketed to approximately 333 millimetres.
Because it rained for 22 out of 30 days this month, our local waterways simply do not have enough time to dry up or recover. To make matters worse, rapid urban expansion means human buildings have completely blocked the ancient streams flowing from the Akwapim Mountain Range down into the Atlantic Ocean.
To solve this crisis, the President is calling an emergency National Security Council meeting to coordinate a nationwide response. Every single Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assembly must work with the Works and Housing Ministry to demolish illegal structures immediately.
The state is not just breaking down offending walls this time. President Mahama emphasized that engineering teams must fully clear all the debris and rubble away so that the flowing water can find its natural path.
Beyond the immediate demolitions, the government is designing a bold 20-year master plan to completely decongest Accra. The state intends to relocate major government institutions and establish a brand new modern growth centre outside the capital region.
The President expressed his deepest sympathy to affected families and directed the Finance Minister to release funds from the Contingency Fund for emergency relief. He highly commended the Ghana Armed Forces, NADMO, and the 48 Engineers Regiment for using rescue boats to save hundreds of trapped citizens.
Also Read: Presidency Issues Urgent Public Safety Alert and Orders Citizens to Stay Indoors During Floods