By Jones Anlimah
Fifteen people, including eleven children, have died after a boat capsized on the Volta Lake near Kete Krachi in what authorities describe as one of the most tragic maritime incidents in recent times.
The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) confirmed the incident, which occurred on Saturday, October 11, attributing the tragedy to overloading. According to preliminary reports, the ill-fated boat was carrying more passengers than permitted when it overturned, claiming the lives of eleven children aged between 2 and 14, and four adults. Four others survived the accident.
In a statement, the GMA expressed its deepest condolences to the bereaved families and the Kete Krachi community, describing the loss as “heartbreaking and deeply painful.”
The Authority has announced immediate measures to prevent a recurrence of such incidents. A specialised team made up of Maritime Inspectors and the Navy Task Force has been deployed to investigate the cause of the disaster and ensure accountability.
Additionally, a high-level Casualty Investigations Committee will be set up in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport to recommend urgent policy reforms and safety protocols for inland water transport.
The GMA also disclosed plans to intensify lakeside safety enforcement operations across the Volta Lake. Boat operators found to be violating safety laws or overloading passengers will face prosecution.
The statement further urged the public to prioritize safety when using water transport. “Do not board any boat that is visibly overloaded or lacks lifejackets. Your refusal could save a life, especially a child’s,” the Authority cautioned.
The Ghana Maritime Authority reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring safe and secure water transportation nationwide.
