By: Bawanke David
The committee tasked with investigating the cause of the Volta Lake boat disaster has submitted its report to the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA). The report, presented by Committee Chair Mr. Clifford Agyarko-Osei, Head of the Inland Waterways Unit at GMA, highlights the findings and recommendations of the committee.
According to the report, the committee found that the incident was caused by an inexperienced operator and the boat being overloaded. To prevent future occurrences, the committee recommended mandatory wearing of life jackets and stopping the use of fishing boats for carrying passengers.
Receiving the report, Naval Capt. Dr. Kamal-Deen Ali, Director-General of GMA, assured that the Authority would enforce the recommendations and prevent similar incidents. He announced plans to establish a GMA office in the Krachi West Municipality to improve oversight and enforcement.
The GMA Board Chair, Madam Jemilat Jawula Mahamah, acknowledged the lack of a local office had contributed to perceived inaction and promised to work with the Municipal Assembly to address issues, including life jacket availability. She advised boat owners to ensure mandatory life jacket use.
The Krachi Traditional Council commended the GMA for their timely intervention and emphasized the importance of life jackets in preventing future incidents.
