Greater Accra REGSEC Declares Heightened Security Readiness Ahead of Peak Rains and Homowo Festivities

The Greater Accra Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has declared a heightened state of operational readiness across the region, as authorities brace for the peak of the rainy season and this year’s Homowo celebrations — two events that historically converge to test the capital’s resilience against flooding and public safety threats.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, June 10, and signed by Greater Accra Regional Minister and REGSEC Chairperson Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, the Council said an emergency review of the region’s flood vulnerabilities and security landscape had produced a comprehensive response plan designed to protect lives, property and cultural heritage.

Flood-Prone Corridors Identified

Working with the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), REGSEC’s intelligence assessments and terrain monitoring have singled out several communities classified as Critical Risk Corridors. Chief among them are Odawna Sahara and Adabraka Official Town within the Korle Klottey Municipality — areas long associated with devastating flood episodes during heavy rains.

The list extends further. High-Risk Flashpoints include Alajo Central, particularly the D.K. Poison and Polo Park areas, Berlin Bridge, and sections of the Downside Area spanning the Ayawaso North and Ayawaso East constituencies. Jelil Estate Junction, Baba Yara Area and Akorli Down in Madina have also been flagged, alongside Osu Alata, Osu Doku and the Abelemkpe Methodist Church enclave.

Beyond the urban core, communities in the peri-urban municipalities face significant risk. Old Barrier, Choice, Tetegu and Oblogo in Weija-Gbawe; Manhean, Afuaman and Medie in Ga West; and Dome Crossing, GAEC Road, Christian Village Drain and sections of the Dakyibi River catchment in Ga East have all been placed under heightened monitoring.

The identification of these corridors comes as recent flooding along the Kasoa–Domeabra road left two people feared swept away, underscoring the urgency of the Council’s intervention.

MMDCEs Directed to Act

The Regional Minister has directed all Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives to intensify desilting exercises and remove waste and debris obstructing major drains and waterways. The exercise, REGSEC said, must be undertaken urgently to improve drainage capacity before the heaviest rains arrive.

The directive echoes concerns raised by traders and drivers at Kumasi’s Asafo Market, who recently appealed to the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly to desilt choked drains and implement lasting drainage solutions — a reminder that flooding is not a challenge confined to the capital.

Security Blanket for Homowo

Beyond flood preparedness, REGSEC has announced heightened security deployments in traditional areas expected to host major Homowo activities. The Council cited intelligence suggesting that large public gatherings during the festival could be exploited by individuals involved in unresolved chieftaincy and land disputes.

Joint security teams will increase intelligence gathering and visibility patrols, while the Ghana National Fire Service and other emergency agencies have completed coordinated crowd management and traffic control plans for major celebration grounds.

NADMO on Standby for Evacuations

The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has identified safe locations that could serve as temporary shelters if evacuations become necessary. The agency is prepared to undertake emergency relocations in communities where rising water levels pose an immediate threat to life.

“The safety and well-being of our citizens remain our foremost priority,” Mrs Ocloo stated. “The government, through the Regional Coordinating Council, the security services, NADMO, and all relevant stakeholders, will not sit idly by for disaster to dictate our narrative. We are reinforcing the foundational trust between the citizen and the State.”

Residents in flood-prone communities have been advised to remain vigilant and comply with safety directives issued by the authorities. With all relevant state institutions on high alert, REGSEC has assured the public of a swift response to emergencies as Greater Accra enters what promises to be a demanding rainy season.

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