Ghana to receive US$250,000 ECOWAS Flood Relief Donation – Okudzeto Ablakwa
The Government of Ghana has announced that the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, has pledged US$250,000, about GH₵3 million, to support victims of the recent devastating floods that affected several communities across the country.
Announcing the donation, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it was notified by ECOWAS in what it described as “the spirit of transparency and accountability.” The floods, which followed days of torrential rainfall in July, displaced thousands of residents, damaged homes, schools, health facilities, and destroyed farmlands in parts of Greater Accra, Central, Eastern and Volta Regions.
“In the spirit of transparency and accountability, the Foreign Ministry has just been notified by ECOWAS that they have decided to donate US$250,000.00 to Ghana for victims of the recent devastating floods,” Okudzeto stated.
According to the Ministry, the funds will be handed over directly to the relevant government agencies responsible for disaster relief once they are received into government accounts. “As can be expected, the Foreign Ministry will hand over the entire funds as soon as we receive it in our accounts,” officials said.
The donation is expected to complement ongoing relief efforts by the National Disaster Management Organisation, NADMO, the Ghana Red Cross Society, and other humanitarian partners who have been distributing food, potable water, temporary shelter materials, and medical supplies to affected families.
Government expressed appreciation to ECOWAS for the gesture, describing it as a demonstration of “true African solidarity and compassion.” “The Government of Ghana conveys boundless appreciation to ECOWAS for their solidarity and true African compassion,” the statement added.
Foreign Affairs Minister noted that the support underscores the importance of regional cooperation in times of crisis. ECOWAS, as a 15-member bloc, has a humanitarian mandate to assist member states affected by natural disasters, conflicts, and public health emergencies. The latest donation adds to previous ECOWAS interventions in Ghana, including support during the COVID-19 pandemic and assistance to internally displaced persons in the northern border areas.
Civil society groups and flood victims have welcomed the donation, but also called for speedy and transparent disbursement to ensure that the money reaches those most in need. NADMO has already begun assessments in the worst-hit districts to update its database of affected households for targeted support.
The Meteorological Service has warned that more rains are expected this month, and government agencies have been urged to remain on alert. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it will provide a public update once the ECOWAS funds are received and transferred.
With an estimated GH₵3 million cedi equivalent, the ECOWAS support is expected to provide immediate relief in the form of food, bedding, and rebuilding materials as communities begin the long process of recovery.
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