'Why does flooding keep happening?' GPCC chairman challenges gov't over recurring disasters

The Chairman of the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC), Apostle Dr Eric Nyamekye, has urged the government to take stronger action against poor sanitation and unregulated development, arguing that recurring floods highlight failures in enforcement and urban planning.

Speaking at the opening of the GPCC's 2026 National Delegates Conference in Accra, Apostle Nyamekye said it was unacceptable that communities continued to experience devastating floods despite repeated assurances from authorities that the problem would be addressed.

"It is frustrating that every year we hear about flooding. Promises are made, yet the same thing happens again the following year," he said.

"This is an area where government must provide leadership."

The church leader attributed part of the problem to the indiscriminate dumping of refuse into drains and waterways, calling for stricter enforcement of sanitation laws.

According to him, tougher penalties and consistent enforcement would help change public behaviour and reduce the risk of flooding.

"If the government becomes serious about this fight, all those who dump refuse into gutters will stop," he said.

Apostle Nyamekye also questioned how buildings continue to be erected in waterways and other flood-prone areas, saying planning authorities should be held accountable for allowing unauthorised developments.

"We should not wait until buildings are completed before talking about demolitions. Where are the town planners?" he asked.

"The government has a role to play, and so do citizens."

Beyond prevention measures, he called on Ghanaians, particularly Christians, to support people affected by recent flooding.

He said expressions of sympathy should be accompanied by practical assistance for victims struggling to rebuild their lives.

"If we say Ghana is largely Christian, then we must do more than simply say sorry. We should also be able to provide support to those affected," he said.

Apostle Nyamekye revealed that the GPCC had already provided financial assistance to some flood victims in Samreboi and encouraged individuals, churches and organisations to contribute to ongoing relief efforts.

The comments come amid renewed debate over flood prevention measures following recent flooding incidents in several parts of the country.