- Former VRA CEO Ing. Kirk Koffi says no one is to blame for the 2023 dam spillage
- housands displaced across eight communities, including Mepe
- Spillage was necessary to protect the dam’s structure
Former Chief Executive Officer of the Volta River Authority (VRA), Ing. Kirk Koffi, has stated that no individual or group should be held accountable for the devastating impact of the 2023 Akosombo Dam spillage.
The incident, which displaced thousands across eight communities along the Volta River—particularly in Mepe—drew widespread criticism. Nonetheless, Ing. Koffi maintains that the event was the result of natural forces beyond human control.
Speaking on Face to Face with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Channel One TV, Koffi explained that the spillage was triggered by excessive inflows into the dam, not by negligence.
Asked whether anyone should bear responsibility for the damage, he replied:
“No, no, it all depends… direct rainfall can come from anywhere. It’s just a matter of the inflow. You can’t blame anyone—they would have died anyway if the dam had overflowed.”
He attributed the situation to abnormal weather patterns in 2023, which caused the dam’s water levels to rise unexpectedly. Although a decrease in inflows was anticipated by September, the situation worsened, compelling the VRA to release more water to prevent structural failure.
“By September 2023, we expected inflows to decline, but instead they increased. That was a warning sign, so they had to intensify the spillage. The dam’s operators cannot risk overtopping—if that happens, everyone downstream could be wiped out. 2023 was an unusual year,” he said.
Ing. Koffi also praised former President John Dramani Mahama and Energy and Green Transition Minister John Jinapor for their proactive response in establishing a committee to address future risks.
“Thanks to President Mahama for his foresight, and to Hon. John Jinapor for forming the committee two years after the incident. I believe they are working towards preventing a recurrence. I’m sure they’ve been properly briefed,” he added.
