Ghana News
Accra’s Floods Expose Deeper Crisis of Governability, Analyst Argues
Every rainy season, images of submerged vehicles, stranded commuters, and plastic-choked drains flood Ghanaian social media. The familiar narrative follows: poor drainage, inadequate infrastructure, climate change, and yet another call for desilting exercises.
But a growing chorus of urban analysts and researchers argues that this explanation, while not false, is dangerously incomplete. The real crisis, they contend, is not engineering—it is governability.
In a recent analytical essay titled “Accra and the Future Now Emerging Across Urban Africa,” writer Richard Dablah argues that Accra’s recurrent flooding reveals a widening gap between the speed of urban transformation and the capacity of institutions to manage it. Decades of cleanup campaigns, desilting exercises, and donor-funded resilience projects have failed to produce lasting resolution, he writes, because the city has entered a phase where informality, improvisation, and distributed adaptation have become the “hidden operating system” of metropolitan survival.
“The city evolves faster than the governing logic designed to manage it,” Dablah writes.
His diagnosis echoes a growing body of academic research. In a study published in April 2025, urban planning scholars Stephen Appiah Takyi and Owusu Amponsah surveyed 100 households in flood-prone areas of Accra, including Kaneshie, Adabraka, and Kwame Nkrumah Circle.
Their finding was stark: 52 percent of residents attributed flooding to weak enforcement of land use regulations, while only 8 percent blamed changes in rainfall patterns. Analysis of recorded flood and rainfall data found no correlation between increased rainfall and flooding—in 2017, for example, rainfall decreased while flooding increased.
Political Ecology, Not Climate Alone
Dr. Albert A. Arhin, a development planner and research fellow at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology’s Bureau of Integrated Rural Development, has made a similar argument.
In an opinion piece published by Graphic Online in July 2025, he wrote that Accra’s floods are “less about global warming and climate change and more about political ecology—how power, planning and privilege shape who suffers and why.”
Arhin points to selective enforcement as a core driver. “Bulldozers are quick to demolish the kiosks of the poor, but eerily silent when luxury estates encroach on floodplains,” he wrote. Urban planning decisions, he argued, are routinely undermined by political interference, and enforcement agencies remain systematically under-resourced.
“When developers know they can grease the system to override technical advice,” Arhin asked, “what incentive remains to follow the rules?”
Research conducted by Josephine Agbeko and Daniel Shtob of Michigan Technological University, published in April 2026 through the Global Disaster Preparedness Center, reached a similar conclusion.
After 40 in-depth interviews with municipal leaders, community leaders, and residents in four at-risk informal settlements, the researchers found that Accra’s dominant flood response “centers on technological and infrastructural solutions and largely omits community-engaged, participatory planning and governance, often to the detriment of project efficacy”.
Historical Planning Failures
The roots of today’s crisis run deep. According to a 2024 policy analysis published by The Ghana Report, the Town and Country Planning Division prepared a plan for Accra in 1958 that designated low-lying areas along the Odaw River for public open space, agriculture, and green belt specifically to conserve flood-prone areas. Decades later, hundreds of acres of those designated spaces have been converted into building plots.
In 1973, a Drainage Committee appointed by the National Liberation Council recommended prohibiting construction within 100 feet on either bank of major drainage channels. Those recommendations were never enforced. In 1992, the Strategic Plan for the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area included thematic maps on seven drainage basins and flood-prone areas, but it “remained on the shelf,” the analysis noted.
More recently, in July 2025, Ghana’s Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs held a validation workshop for a revised National Urban Policy Monitoring and Evaluation Framework, supported by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. The framework is designed to track inputs, activities, outputs, and long-term outcomes for urban planning, and includes plans for an Urban Observatory to support continuous monitoring and reporting.
Whether this framework will succeed where previous efforts have failed remains an open question. The same workshop also produced a draft Capacity Needs Assessment Report identifying “institutional gaps in staffing, logistics, technical capabilities, and coordination mechanisms across urban governance actors”.
Informality as Adaptation
Dablah’s essay situates Accra’s governance crisis within a broader African urban reality. He argues that informality has ceased to represent a temporary deviation from urban order and has instead become the “hidden operating system” of metropolitan survival.
Academic research supports this view. A 2025 study by Dr. Isaac Addo of the University of Ghana, published in the volume “Intersectionality and the City,” examined low-income workers at Accra’s Airport City—a “world-class enclave” of multinational businesses. Despite being employed in a space designed for high-income transients, these workers earn low wages and face barriers to accessing basic necessities. Their response has been to “common” the urban enclave, producing liminal spaces that blur the boundary between formality and informality through informal food vending and other adaptive strategies.
Dablah argues that this distributed adaptation—informal transport networks absorbing mobility pressures, informal settlements absorbing demographic expansion, plastic sachets compensating for uneven water access, private generators filling energy gaps—has become the mechanism through which Accra functions.
“Nothing fully collapses,” he writes. “Yet nothing fully resolves either.”
Dr. Onyanta Adama-Ajonye, a researcher at Stockholm University whose work focuses on urban governance and service delivery in African cities, is currently leading a project examining how informal waste workers in Accra, Lagos, and Maputo keep materials in circulation through improvised practices. Her research explores how new circular economy policies encounter pre-existing informal systems—often with unintended consequences for marginalized groups.
The Way Forward
Researchers and policy analysts have offered concrete recommendations. Takyi and Amponsah call for strict enforcement of buffer regulations, collaboration between planning authorities and the judiciary, and the adoption of green infrastructure such as rain gardens, permeable pavement, and rain harvesting systems. They also suggest introducing the “polluter pays principle” in city management, requiring those who encroach on wetlands or dispose of waste indiscriminately to bear the cost of environmental degradation—a practice already applied in cities such as Barcelona and Helsinki.
The 2024 policy analysis from The Ghana Report proposed establishing an Accra Region Conservation Authority or empowering the existing Densu Basin Board to undertake storm water management across entire drainage basins rather than within fragmented local government jurisdictions.
The author also called for a massive public awareness and education programme “directed towards attitude change that would enable people to understand flood problems, and to see themselves as being part, not only of the problem, but also of the solution”.
Arhin, the KNUST research fellow, offered a blunter assessment.
“These are not technical challenges—they are political choices,” he wrote. “Until we tackle the power dynamics behind who builds where and who is held accountable, no amount of rainfall prediction models or climate resilience strategies will save Accra from its next inundation”.
For Dablah, the stakes extend beyond Accra. He argues that the pressures converging inside African cities—climate instability, demographic compression, fragmented governance, adaptive informality—increasingly resemble pressures emerging globally.
“The future may arrive unevenly,” he writes. “But it rarely arrives only once.”
As Ghana invests over $200 million in the Greater Accra Resilient and Integrated Development (GARID) project and other interventions, the question is whether these investments will address the underlying governance crisis or simply build more infrastructure atop a dysfunctional system.
The floodwaters, Dablah suggests, will reveal the answer.
Ghana News
Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari II: Influential Traditional Ruler Who Restored Peace to Dagbon After 16-Year Dispute Dies
Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari II, the traditional king (Overlord) of Dagbon in northern Ghana, has died.
Enskinned in January 2019, he played a central role in ending a long-running 16-year chieftaincy dispute between two royal factions that had divided the kingdom and disrupted traditional activities for years.
Born Bukali in Mion, the late king began his leadership journey as chief of Kpunkpono before ascending to the influential Savelugu skin.
His selection as Yaa Naa marked a historic moment of reconciliation in Dagbon, one of Ghana’s most important traditional kingdoms.
His passing, confirmed by multiple credible sources on Monday, July 13, is expected to trigger widespread mourning across the region, with many reflecting on his contributions to peace and the restoration of stability in northern Ghana.
Yaa Naa’s Legacy
Ascending to the throne as the 41st Overlord (or 42nd by some regional counts) in January 2019, his brief but transformative reign brought stability back to one of Ghana’s oldest and most influential traditional kingdoms.
The core pillars of his legacy include:
- The Restoration of Peace and Reconciliation
The defining achievement of his reign was ending the deeply polarizing, 17-year-long Dagbon chieftaincy dispute.
Following the tragic 2002 assassination of his predecessor, Yaa Naa Yakubu Andani II, the kingdom was fractured into two rival royal gates: the Abudus and the Andanis.
Working alongside the government-backed Committee of Eminent Chiefs, his enskinment in 2019 healed these generational wounds. He successfully united both factions, restoring the moral and spiritual authority of the skins of Yendi and bringing long-awaited political stability to Northern Ghana.
- Institutional and Constitutional Reforms
Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari II recognized that lasting peace required strong legal frameworks.
In 2020, he initiated a comprehensive review of the Dagbon Constitution to clarify customary successions and prevent future royal disputes.
Under his guidance, the revised constitution was formally adopted by the Dagbon Traditional Council in 2022, providing a clear roadmap for future generations.
- Socio-Economic and Cultural Development
He actively worked to move Dagbon away from conflict and toward regional prosperity.
Dagbon Development Fund (DDF): Launched in 2021, this fund was designed to channel resources directly into economic development, healthcare, and educational infrastructure across the kingdom.
Gbewaa Palace Redevelopment: In March 2023, he initiated the physical reconstruction and modernization of the historic Gbewaa Palace in Yendi, a symbolic rebuilding of the kingdom’s beating heart.
International Partnerships: He championed human capital growth by facilitating institutional collaborations, such as the 2024 educational partnership between Tamale Technical University (TaTU) and Bursa Technical University in Turkey.
- Humanitarian and National Leadership
As the President of the Northern Regional House of Chiefs, he extended his influence far beyond his immediate kingdom to foster national unity.
He was highly regarded for his philanthropy, notably sending substantial agricultural relief (including hundreds of bags of maize, rice, and yams) to help communities displaced by the devastating 2023 Volta Region floods and parts of the Savannah Region.
Ultimately, Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari II went from a quiet, respected regional chief of Savelugu to the “Lion of Gbewaa” who chose healing over division. He leaves behind a peaceful, structured, and forward-looking Dagbon Kingdom.
The United Nations has issued a sharp warning against using migrants as scapegoats for South Africa’s socioeconomic challenges, as the government confirmed that more than 53,000 foreign nationals have been deported or repatriated in just five weeks.
Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi announced on Sunday that 53,499 foreign nationals have been processed for deportation and voluntary repatriation since the launch of a nationwide “migration management” campaign in mid-June.
The crackdown, one of South Africa’s largest in years that many across the world are condemning as cruel and inhumane, follows weeks of anti-immigration protests marked by violence, intimidation, and looting.
Malawians Bear the Brunt
According to official figures, Malawian citizens accounted for over 80 percent of those processed, followed by nationals from Zimbabwe and Mozambique. The Temporary Repatriation Processing Centre in Musina, Limpopo Province, has processed nearly 2,500 people, most of them Malawian and Zimbabwean nationals. Several countries, including Ghana, Nigeria, Uganda, and Kenya, have flown their citizens home in recent weeks.
UN: Migrants Are Not the Problem
The UN has cautioned against conflating migration with South Africa’s deep-rooted challenges of unemployment, inequality, and service delivery failures. Anti-migrant activists have accused undocumented foreigners of driving crime and taking jobs, but the UN and civil society groups argue that foreign workers—who make up only about 5 percent of the population—are being unfairly scapegoated.
“Now, in what universe can you scapegoat 4% to 5% of the population for all our problems?” economist Duma Gqubule said recently, dismissing the anti-migrant stance as “mass hallucination”.
Organizations defending migrants’ rights emphasize that foreign workers have become convenient targets in a country where the unemployment rate exceeds 30 percent and disproportionately affects Black South Africans.
Vigilante Threats and a “Deadline” That Passed
Anti-migrant activists had set an unofficial 30 June deadline for all undocumented migrants to leave the country, prompting thousands to flee in fear. Protesters—including leaders from groups such as March and March—have threatened to stage weekly demonstrations until the government meets their demands. There are mounting fears that the protests could turn violent again.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has acknowledged public concerns about immigration but has condemned attacks against migrants and warned citizens against taking the law into their own hands. Minister Kubayi also cautioned that protesters must not conduct unauthorised searches of homes and businesses suspected of sheltering undocumented migrants.
Government Defends Enforcement, Signals Scaling Down
Kubayi said the deportation process has helped authorities apprehend individuals wanted for criminal activity, and that the government remains committed to “observing human rights and dignity of all people in our country, irrespective of their citizenship”. She added that authorities will continue enforcing immigration laws.
However, the government is reportedly considering scaling back the campaign as the number of repatriations increases.
“We envisage a phased scaling down of the process which will not negatively impact or compromise the deportation and repatriation processes we are undertaking,” a government source told Business Day.
Diplomatic Fallout
The crackdown has strained regional relations.
Ghana postponed a state visit by President Ramaphosa following xenophobic rallies that resulted in hundreds of Ghanaians being repatriated.
Other African nations have similarly expressed concern, with some leaders accusing South Africa of failing to protect foreign nationals.
Check out the top 10 news headlines dominating Ghanaian newspapers published on Monday, July 13, 2026.
1. Miracles Aboagye Arrested by EOCO
Appears in: The Statesman, The New Publisher, The Ghanaian Publisher, The Custodian, Daily Gist, DailyGuide
Dennis Miracles Aboagye, a prominent NPP communications strategist, was arrested by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) just hours after declaring his intention to contest for the position of NPP National Communications Director. The NPP has demanded his immediate release, while the party’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has called for unity among party ranks.
2. President Mahama Directs Zoomlion to Open Transfer Stations for Waste Disposal
Appears in: The Daily Banner, The Source, Daily Post, The Inquisitor, The Ghanaian Publisher, Daily Graphic
President John Dramani Mahama has ordered Zoomlion to operationalise six idle waste transfer stations across Greater Accra to ease waste disposal and improve flood recovery efforts following the recent devastating floods. The directive aims to ensure that silt and garbage removed during the clean-up exercise are properly transported and disposed of, preventing them from being washed back into drains.
3. Military Shooting at Kyebi Zongo: MP Demands Independent Probe
Appears in: Supreme, The New Crusading Guide, Daily Gist, The Metro Lens
The Member of Parliament for Abuakwa South has called for an independent investigation into a shooting incident involving military personnel at Kyebi Zongo, which left one person wounded and sparked tensions in the community. Reports indicate that galamseyers clashed with the military, and the MP has demanded transparency and accountability.
4. Bawumia Calls for Unity: NPP Flagbearer Urges Losers to Back Winners
Appears in: The Daily Banner, The Source, The Informer, The Ghanaian Publisher, Daily Gist
Following the NPP constituency elections, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has appealed to unsuccessful aspirants to unite behind the newly elected executives, emphasising that party cohesion is essential for victory in the 2028 elections. His call comes amid reports of violence and destruction of election materials at Bantama.
5. GJA Gives NDC Chairman Seven Days to Apologise Over Obaatanpa Radio Attack
Appears in: Supreme, The Informer
The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Central Regional Chairman of the NDC to apologise for an attack on Obaatanpa Radio. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation and renewed concerns over press freedom and political intolerance.
6. Obom Asafoatse Accuses Kasoa Police of Brutal Assault and Rights Abuses
Appears in: The National Goldheart, The New Crusading Guide
The Obom Asafoatse has accused police officers at Kasoa of brutal assault and attempted extrajudicial killing. He has appealed to President Mahama, the Inspector General of Police, and the Interior Minister for an independent probe into the alleged abuses.
7. ‘Nkoko Nkitinkiti’ Successful Pilot Paves Way for Commercial Poultry Revolution
Appears in: Supreme, The New Crusading Guide, The Chronicle, Daily Gist
The successful pilot phase of the ‘Nkoko Nkitinkiti’ poultry programme has positioned Ghana for large-scale commercial poultry production. Agric Minister Eric Opoku has confirmed that the second phase is ready to commence, signalling a major boost for the country’s agricultural sector and food security.
8. Fifi Kwetey, Barbara Asamoah Under Fire Over Awutu Senya East Cover-Up Claims
Appears in: Supreme, The New Crusading Guide
NDC figures Fifi Kwetey and Barbara Asamoah have been drawn into a controversy surrounding alleged cover-up claims in the Awutu Senya East constituency. The unfolding scandal has sparked intense debate and calls for accountability within the party.
9. Abu Trica Pleads Not Guilty in US Over $8m Romance Scam
Appears in: DailyGuide
Ghanaian socialite Abu Trica, extradited to the United States over an alleged $8 million romance fraud scheme, has pleaded not guilty. His extradition has drawn significant media attention, with questions raised about the legal process and diplomatic cooperation between Ghana and the US.
10. Disaster Looms at Ashaiman: Petrol Tanker Fire Raises Alarm Over Workshops Under High-Tension Cables
Appears in: Republic Press
A petrol tanker fire in Ashaiman has raised urgent safety concerns, with residents warning of a potential catastrophe as mechanics, welders, and fuel-related activities operate dangerously close to high-tension electricity pylons. Authorities are under pressure to enforce safety regulations and relocate the informal workshops.
Ideas, AI and Entrepreneurship Take Centre Stage at Accra’s Brilliant Books & Business Summit
Bontungu: Five Days When the Heartbeat of Anomabu Echoes Across the Coast
How Accra’s Artisan Shopping Tours Are Giving Visitors a Taste of Ghana’s Creative Spirit
-
Business13 hours agoGhana Sets 4-Month Target to End Tomato Imports
-
Ghana News14 hours agoTop 10 Front-Page Headlines from Ghanaian Newspapers: Monday, July 13, 2026
-
Ghana News13 hours ago‘Don’t Blame Migrants’: UN Warns South Africa as ‘Cruel’ Deportations Surpass 53,000
-
Reels & Social Media Highlights2 days agoClean-ups, Catchphrases, and Clergy Clashes: Inside Ghana’s Viral Weekend
-
Ghana News12 hours agoYaa Naa Mahama Abukari II: Influential Traditional Ruler Who Restored Peace to Dagbon After 16-Year Dispute Dies
-
Health & Wellness2 days agoThe Health Advantage Most People Don’t Notice Until It’s Gone
-
Business12 hours agoWorld Bank Downgrades Ghana’s Energy Recovery Program to ‘Unsatisfactory’
-
Health & Wellness1 day agoMiscarriage Myths Are Still Hurting Women—Here’s What Everyone Should Know