Akatsi South Battles Environmental Degradation Amid Floods, Poor Infrastructure, and Sanitation Challenges
Environmental degradation in Akatsi South Municipality continues to threaten livelihoods, infrastructure, and public health, as the area grapples with recurring floods, weak sanitation systems, and deteriorating public assets.
Recent years have seen an increase in severe flooding across the municipality.
In May 2022, days of continuous rainfall left homes, schools, and farmlands submerged in key areas including Akatsi Tatorme, Atidigakope, and Monome.
The 2019 floods were similarly devastating, wiping out crops like maize, tomatoes, and beans in communities such as Ayitikope and Atidzive.
Farmers in the area continue to suffer massive losses, raising concerns over food security and the sustainability of livelihoods in the region.
The lack of effective drainage systems has compounded the problem. The Akatsi South Municipal Assembly has attempted to address this by desilting storm drains in flood-prone zones like Anta Estate and Tatorme. However, these short-term interventions are undermined by poor waste management practices and limited community participation.
Municipal officials stress that long-term success depends on public cooperation and investment in more resilient infrastructure.
On the sanitation front, there have been some gains. Sixteen communities within Akatsi South achieved Open Defecation Free (ODF) status by 2018 through the Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) initiative, backed by UNICEF. This milestone has helped reduce environmental health risks, though challenges persist in areas with limited access to clean water and hygiene facilities.
In a bid to curb environmental degradation, the municipality participated in the national ‘Green Ghana Day’ initiative in June 2022. Residents and community leaders came together to plant trees, promoting reforestation and environmental stewardship across the district.
The exercise was widely praised as a step toward climate resilience and ecological balance.
Adding to the concerns is the deteriorating state of the ‘Katapila’ Dam, a vital water source for the municipality. The dam faces potential collapse due to erosion and neglect. Municipal Chief Executive Martin Kofitsey Nyahe recently urged residents and stakeholders to act swiftly to protect the dam, warning of the dire consequences of inaction.
Experts say the path forward must involve integrated approaches—combining infrastructure upgrades, environmental education, and continued sanitation efforts. Sustainable development in Akatsi South will depend on the collective effort of local authorities, residents, and development partners.
As climate change intensifies and weather patterns grow more unpredictable, the municipality’s fight against environmental degradation is far from over—but there are signs of progress.
Story By Gideon Elorm Agbakpe
