Mahama deploys military to lead Ghana flood response after 13 die

President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Brigadier General Forster Okae-Yeboah, Director General of Joint Operations at the Ghana Armed Forces, to lead a nationwide flood mitigation exercise following the deadly floods that swept through parts of Accra earlier this week.

The military-led operation comes after torrential rains triggered severe flooding across several communities in the Greater Accra Region on Monday, leaving at least 13 people dead and causing widespread destruction.

Official figures show that more than 38,000 people were affected by the floods, with over 7,000 households impacted. Homes, businesses and key infrastructure also sustained extensive damage.

Announcing the appointment in a Facebook post on Thursday, Government Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu said Brigadier General Okae-Yeboah had been tasked with leading an "uncompromising, robust, and all-action Flood Mitigation Exercise" as the government steps up efforts to prevent further flooding.

As Director General of Joint Operations, Brigadier General Okae-Yeboah is expected to coordinate the exercise with state institutions, security agencies and emergency response organisations to implement urgent interventions in flood-prone communities.

The Presidency said the senior military officer will brief the nation at 11:00 GMT on Friday, outlining the scope of the operation, the agencies involved and the measures being introduced to reduce flood risks and protect lives.

The briefing is also expected to provide details of the government's immediate response strategy as authorities continue relief, recovery and clean-up operations in communities affected by one of Accra's deadliest flooding incidents in recent years.

Flooding remains a recurring challenge in Ghana's capital, with poor drainage, rapid urbanisation and the occupation of waterways frequently blamed for worsening the impact of heavy rainfall. The government says the latest military-led exercise forms part of broader efforts to strengthen the country's flood preparedness and resilience.