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A devastating boat accident on the Volta Lake near Kete Krachi in the Oti Region has claimed the lives of 15 people, including 11 children between the ages of 2 and 14. The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) confirmed the incident in a statement on Sunday, October 12, after the boat capsized on Saturday, October 11.
The boat, which was traveling from Okuma to Bovime in the Krachi West District, was allegedly severely overloaded, exceeding its safe operational capacity. The incident resulted in the deaths of 11 children and four adults, while four others survived. The bodies of the deceased have been deposited at the Kete Krachi and Worawora Government Hospital mortuaries.
The GMA has taken swift action to address the tragedy. A specialized team comprising maritime safety inspectors and Navy Task Force personnel has been deployed to investigate the cause of the accident and ensure accountability. The Authority has also announced plans to form a high-level Casualty Investigations Committee in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport to propose urgent policy reforms.
To prevent future tragedies, the GMA will implement enhanced enforcement operations along the Volta Lake, focusing on:
Passenger Limits: Strict enforcement of passenger limits to prevent overloading
Life Jacket Use: Mandatory use of life jackets on all boats
Operational Permits: Verification of valid operational permits for all boats
Prosecution: Seizure and prosecution of overloaded boats and operators who flout safety regulations
The GMA is urging passengers and residents to be vigilant and refuse to board boats that are visibly overloaded or lack life jackets. “Your refusal could save a life, especially a child’s,” the Authority emphasized.
The GMA reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring safer water transport across Ghana’s inland waterways. The incident highlights the need for continued efforts to improve maritime safety and prevent such tragedies in the future.
