DABOYA: DCE Adam Eliasu Donates 100 Life Jackets to Boat Operators on White Volta
The District Chief Executive (DCE) for North Gonja, Hon. Adam Eliasu, continues his commitment to water safety on the White Volta as his office hands over 100 life jackets to boat operators in Daboya. This brings the total number of life jackets donated to 350 since he assumed office in 2017.
The donation, made on behalf of the DCE by constituency secretary of the New Patriotic Party, Mr. Abubakari Abdul-Karim, is part of ongoing efforts to enhance safety measures along this critical waterway.
The White Volta, a significant geographical feature in Ghana, is the main headstream of the Volta River. Originating in Northern Burkina Faso, it runs for approximately 1,352 kilometers (840 miles) and empties into Lake Volta.
Despite its importance, the river has presented water safety challenges, particularly in Daboya, where annual floods caused by heavy rainfall and spillage from the Bagre Dam in Burkina Faso endanger lives and property. Over the years, boat accidents have been recorded, with fatalities including six in 2014 and three in 2016.
Since 2017, Hon. Eliasu has been proactive in addressing these risks through public advocacy programs, resource mobilization, and collaboration with local partners. In 2022, his office, in partnership with Ecozile Ltd, donated 200 life jackets to boat operators on the White Volta.
This was followed by a donation of 50 life jackets in October 2023, and now, an additional 100 pieces were handed over on 15th July 2024.
The donated life jackets are vital safety tools that have helped prevent casualties. Properly fitted, these life vests can keep users afloat for up to 24 hours, offering protection in the event of accidents.
Hon. Eliasu emphasized the importance of using these safety devices, urging all commuters and boat operators to make full use of life vests, life jackets, and other personal protective equipment.
Looking ahead, there is hope for a more permanent solution to the safety challenges as the contractor for the Daboya Bridge over the White Volta is now fully on site and working diligently to meet project timelines..
