Residents of Samreboi in the Western Region have begun returning to their homes following the gradual recession of floodwaters that submerged large sections of the township and displaced thousands of people over the past few weeks.
While the easing flood situation has brought hope to affected families, the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has cautioned residents against rushing back into their homes until comprehensive safety assessments are completed.
The floods, described as one of the worst disasters to hit the Amenfi West Municipality in recent years, affected nearly 2,500 residents and destroyed approximately 100 buildings, forcing families to seek refuge in temporary shelters established at schools, churches and other public facilities.
The Western Regional Director of NADMO, Mr Daniel Darlington Atitso, said although some flood victims had started returning home to assess the extent of damage and retrieve personal belongings, the organisation was prioritising public safety before approving a full-scale return.
“We understand people are eager to go home, but safety comes first. We need to ensure that buildings are structurally sound, water sources are safe and there are no health risks that could expose residents to disease outbreaks,” he said.
According to him, engineers, environmental health officers and other technical experts are conducting detailed inspections of affected communities to identify unsafe structures, contaminated water sources and other hazards created by the floods.
He assured residents currently accommodated at the Samreboi Community Day School and other temporary shelters that they would be informed immediately once the affected areas are declared safe for habitation.
Relief operations remain ongoing, with government agencies, private companies and individuals continuing to provide support to flood victims.
The Member of Parliament for Amenfi West, Mr Eric Afful, has donated 200 beds and other relief items to the displaced families. The Western Regional representative on the Council of State, Mr Maxwell Boakye, has also presented assorted relief supplies, while several philanthropists and corporate organisations have contributed food, clothing and other essential items.
In addition, interim measures introduced at the height of the disaster, including mobile toilet facilities, enhanced security patrols and the deployment of medical teams to the relief centres, remain in place to support displaced residents until normalcy is fully restored.
Samartex Timber and Plywood Company Limited is among the organisations partnering the Municipal Assembly and NADMO to assist in the recovery and rebuilding process.
Background
The devastating floods followed days of persistent heavy rainfall that caused nearby rivers and streams to overflow their banks, inundating homes, businesses and public infrastructure across Samreboi. Hundreds of families lost property, livelihoods and personal belongings, prompting a coordinated humanitarian response involving NADMO, the Ghana Health Service, the Ghana Armed Forces, local authorities, corporate organisations and charitable groups.
As floodwaters continue to recede, attention is gradually shifting from emergency relief to rehabilitation and reconstruction, with authorities emphasising that the safety of residents remains the foremost priority.
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