Accra, Ghana – A devastating flood has swept through Ghana’s capital, leaving at least 13 dead and thousands displaced. The disaster has exposed deep weaknesses in the city’s drainage and flood defence systems, many of which were constructed with British development aid. The flooding, triggered by torrential rains that began on Monday, submerged entire neighbourhoods, destroyed homes and swept away vehicles.
Rescue operations are ongoing, with emergency services struggling to reach stranded residents. The death toll is expected to rise as waters recede. The flooding highlights a recurring problem in Accra, where rapid urbanisation has outpaced infrastructure investment.
The drainage systems, partly funded by the UK’s Department for International Development, have been criticised for inadequate capacity and poor maintenance. British officials have expressed condolences and pledged further support, but experts question the effectiveness of past interventions. The disaster raises urgent questions about the sustainability of infrastructure projects in vulnerable regions.
