The Government has assured its full support for families affected by last Saturday’s tragic canoe accident on the River Oti in the Krachi West Municipality of the Oti Region.
The Vice President of the Republic, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, visited Okuma to commiserate with the bereaved families and make a donation on behalf of the government.
Fifteen people, including children, died in the incident, which occurred on October 11, 2025, when a canoe carrying passengers capsized on the river.
During her visit, the Vice President donated 200,000 Ghana cedis to the bereaved families and presented 200 life jackets, 10 cartons of soap, 30 cartons of Frytol, 100 mosquito nets, 200 blankets, and 100 bags of rice.
She assured the affected families that the government will bear the cost of funerals and cover the medical expenses of survivors currently receiving treatment at the hospital.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang also advised residents and river users to always wear life jackets when crossing the Oti River to prevent future tragedies.
The Municipal Chief Executive for Krachi West, Mr. Prosper Addo, who received the items on behalf of the victims, expressed appreciation to the Vice President for the support, saying the gesture will bring great relief to the community.
The Vice President was accompanied by the Board Chair of COCOBOD, Mr. Samuel Ofosu Ampofo; the Minister for Transport, Hon. Joseph Bukari Nikpe; the Oti Regional Minister, Hon. John Kwadwo Gyapong; representatives from the Ghana Maritime Authority and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO); as well as some regional executives of the National Democratic Congress.
The Member of Parliament for Krachi West, Madam Helen Adwoa Ntoso, who also joined the Vice President, advised boat operators to adhere strictly to safety protocols on the Oti River and cautioned them against overloading their vessels.
The Oti Regional Minister, Hon. John Kwadwo Gyapong, also expressed gratitude to the government for coming to the aid of the victims with relief items in the wake of the tragedy.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
