Accra Flooding Crisis: Reverse Development Is the Solution – Engineer Amon Kotei

Engineer Issaka Amon Kotei, a local governance expert, has pointed to unchecked development and poor planning as the primary causes of the recurring floods in Accra, calling for reverse development as a long-term solution.

Speaking on Maakye on Kessben TV Monday morning, Engineer Kotei explained that Accra is naturally surrounded by mountains, and over the years, no proper systems have been put in place to guide rainwater from the hills into the sea.

“When it rains, the water has nowhere to go. Our man-made activities have destroyed the channels meant to carry floodwater. Now, the floods stay with us for hours and cause disaster,” he said.
The expert criticized the ongoing development in lagoons and wetlands, stressing that such actions are blocking natural water passages.

“Water struggles to enter the lagoons because people are building on them. These developers must face the consequences,” he added.

He urged government and city planners to adopt reverse development, especially along buffer zones and waterways, by clearing unauthorized structures to restore the natural flow of water.
When asked why local assemblies permit development in flood-prone areas, Engineer Kotei admitted that local officials often face pressure from higher authorities to approve permits.

“The truth is, the people in the assemblies can’t always say no. There’s pressure from the top. This is why we need everyone in local government to take responsibility and protect our wetlands,” he stated.
In response to whether Accra’s flooding can be resolved, he said yes, but only if the country is ready to make tough decisions.

“If we’re not ready to clear the channels, the problem won’t stop. We must rethink how we develop our cities, especially in high-risk areas. Reverse development is the key,” he emphasized.
Engineer Kotei also pointed out that overpopulation in Accra is compounding the crisis and urged urban planners to look at long-term decentralization strategies.

Written By: Adeline Mumuni