The Oti Regional Minister, John Kwadwo Gyapong, has urged renewed focus on safety measures on the Volta Lake, citing the frequency of accidents on the waterway over the years.
Several lives have been lost in recent years due to inadequate safety provisions, resulting in devastating consequences.
On Sunday, October 12, 2025, 15 people, including 11 children, perished in a tragic incident near Kete Krachi when the boat they were travelling on capsized. Preliminary report revealed that safety concerns were not prioritised, leading to the mayhem.
These recurring cases have intensified demands for decisive action, prompting the Minister to advocate for proactive interventions to enhance safety for those who travel on the Volta Lake.
His comments followed what he describes as a dedicated effort by Ecozoil Limited, a subsidiary of the Jospong Group of Companies, to enhance safety and protect lives on the Volta Lake.
He commended the company’s donation of 200 life jackets to schoolchildren and residents in the Krachi West District on Friday, October 17, 2025.
The initiative, led by Yaa Oforiwaa, National Coordinator of the Volta Lake Transport Safety Project, and Daniel Lamptey, Business Development Manager, was a direct response to the recent boat disaster that claimed several lives.
According to the Minister, the Company’s commitment and demonstration of saving lives is an act worth emulating. “Ecozoil has demonstrated what it means to be a responsible partner in national development,” he stated.
“Their response after the recent tragedy shows compassion, leadership, and a genuine commitment to saving lives. I am ready to support them wherever necessary to ensure this initiative continues,” he added.
The minister also pledged his full support for the renewal of the Volta Lake Transport Safety Project (VLTSP), highlighting its crucial past role in safety education and enforcement.
“This project made a difference. It improved safety awareness and helped reduce accidents. I strongly support its renewal and will work with the relevant ministries and agencies to make that possible,” he assured.
With the Volta Lake covering over 22 per cent of the region, Mr. Gyapong stressed the need for a well-regulated water transport system to drive growth.
“Transport on the lake must be as safe and organised as transport on land,” he emphasised. “We must empower local communities, enforce safety regulations, and make sure every passenger has access to life-saving tools,” he indicated.
He further acknowledged the essential role of the private sector, stating, “Government alone cannot do it all. We need committed private sector partners like the Jospong Group and Ecozoil to help us achieve lasting safety and sustainable development for our people.”
Gyapong applauded the Jospong Group and Ecozoil for their consistent commitment to community safety, calling them a model of corporate citizenship.
