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The International Association of World Peace Advocates (IAWPA) – Ghana Chapter has called on the government to establish a Victims Support Fund for families affected by the recent flood disaster in Accra.
The association has also urged government to declare a National Day of Mourning and organise a state memorial service in honour of the victims.
In a statement signed by the Country Director and Head of Missions of IAWPA Ghana, H.E. Amb. Dr. Samuel Ben Owusu, the group expressed deep sadness over the loss of more than 22 lives following the floods.
IAWPA said it was disappointed that there has been no national recognition, day of mourning, or state support for families who lost their loved ones.
“When we lose leaders, the whole nation mourns. When we lose 22 citizens to a national emergency, silence is not an option,” the statement said.
The association is therefore calling on government to:
Declare a National Day of Mourning for the victims.
Organise a state memorial service with affected families present.
Establish a Victims Support Fund to support bereaved families.
Conduct an independent inquiry into flood prevention and urban planning.
The Country Director of IAWPA Ghana, who is also a pastor, expressed solidarity with the bereaved families, stating that every Ghanaian life matters.
Meanwhile, government has released GH¢350 million from the Contingency Fund to support emergency flood relief and mitigation efforts following the devastating floods.
The Ministry of Finance said the funds have been transferred to the National Disaster Management Committee (NDMC) account after approval was secured from Parliament through the Finance Committee.
Out of the amount, GH¢200 million will be used for immediate relief efforts for flood victims and affected communities, while GH¢150 million will support flood mitigation measures to reduce the impact of future disasters.
The release of the funds follows a directive from President John Dramani Mahama to provide urgent assistance to affected communities and strengthen measures to tackle flooding across the country.
Story by Efua Nessa