A committee established by the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) to probe the Volta Lake boat disaster in the Krachi West Municipality of the Oti Region has presented its report to the Authority in Dambai, outlining critical safety recommendations aimed at preventing future incidents.
Presenting the findings, Committee Chairman and Head of the Inland Waterways Unit, Mr Clifford Agyarko-Osei, said the report was the result of rigorous work by the investigation team. He noted that several recommendations had been compiled to strengthen safety enforcement on the lake.
Naval Capt. Isaac Abu Mahama, Deputy Chair of the Committee and Maritime Security Coordinator, highlighted two major proposals: mandatory wearing of life jackets by all passengers and a complete halt to the use of fishing boats for passenger transport.
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He stressed that enforcing these measures would significantly reduce the risk on the lake.
Committee member Nana Akwasi Brabi stated that the findings aligned with the earlier NADMO–Navy joint report, which identified an inexperienced operator and a weakened, overloaded boat as the primary causes of the disaster.
Receiving the report, Director-General of the Ghana Maritime Authority, Naval Capt. Dr Kamal-Deen Ali (Rtd.) announced that the GMA had already begun assessing inland water operations to ensure compliance with safety laws.
He disclosed that the Authority would soon establish an office in the Krachi West Municipality to improve supervision and enforcement.
Mr David More, Chairman of the Boat Operators Association, raised ongoing challenges, including insufficient premix fuel, inadequate life jackets and a shortage of quality wood for boat repairs.
Board Chair of the GMA, Madam Jemilat Jawulaa Mahama, acknowledged that the absence of a GMA office in the area had created a perception of inactivity.
She assured that a new office would be commissioned soon and that the Authority would work closely with the Navy and the Municipal Assembly to ensure life jacket usage becomes compulsory.
The Akuamohene of the Krachi Traditional Council, Nana Ogyefoase Anto, praised the GMA for responding swiftly and staying engaged with communities along the Volta Lake.
