By Rachel Quartey
The former Minister for Environment, Dr. Kwaku Afriyie, has disclosed to Parliament the earnest process by the Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Mr. Henry Kwabena Kokofu, to seek World Bank funding for victims of the Akosombo Dam spillage.
Dr. Afriyie who is also the MP for Sefwi Wiawso, further informed Parliament that Mr. Kokofu is therefore working diligently to submit Ghana’s papers to secure the said funding.
“In the case of the Akosombo spillage, for example, we believe that we can qualify under loss and damage. The EPA, under the leadership of Executive Director Kokofu, is working hard so that we can deposit our papers, the status of the loss and damage, with the World Bank,” Dr. Afriyie said.
“All the rules and regulations that will lead to the disbursement are now being discussed. We believe that we can qualify,” he added.
Over the past months, MPs representing affected constituencies have criticized the government for its inaction, noting that many victims are still living in tents and awaiting due resettlement and compensation.
Dr. Afriyie stated that efforts are underway to qualify for funding under loss and damage provisions, and discussions are ongoing regarding the disbursement of funds.
Parliament is currently reviewing the Environmental Protection Bill, which seeks to address environmental challenges and enhance the Environmental Protection Authority’s ability to tackle emerging environmental issues.