Devastating Floods in Ghana’s Volta Lake Area Cause ₵46 Million Losses to Tilapia Farmers

by Fishery News

Man-made flooding in the Volta Lake area of Ghana has resulted in staggering losses for tilapia farmers, initially estimated at ₵46 million (approximately €3.7 million / USD$3.9 million), according to the Ghana Chamber of Aquaculture. The flooding occurred during the “controlled spillage” of the Akosombo Dam by the Volta River Authority in September and October to prevent damage to hydropower facilities due to increased water levels.

The floods wreaked havoc on tilapia aquaculture facilities, destroying over 500 tilapia cages, impacting live fish stock, brood stocks, and fingerlings. Several hatcheries close to the Volta River were also submerged. The total losses are expected to rise as further water spillage occurs, revealing the full extent of the damage.

The Ghana Chamber of Aquaculture called on the government and supporting agencies to assist affected fish farmers and urged farmers to secure aquaculture insurance for future risk mitigation. The chamber also emphasized the need for better communication from the Volta River Authority to stakeholders about planned water spillage to enable adequate preparation and mitigation measures.

The Chamber’s advice to fish farmers included being vigilant about the Authority’s activities, implementing measures like fixing floats or barrels around cages to minimize the impact of fast-moving water currents, avoiding overstocking cages, harvesting matured fish before further spillage, and ensuring constant observation of nets and debris by feeders and divers.

 

You may also like

Leave a Comment

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More

Shares