Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has announced that the government will fully fund the burial of the 16 victims who tragically lost their lives in the recent Okumah boat disaster at Kete Krachi in the Oti Region.
During a visit to the affected community, the Vice President met with grieving families and offered condolences on behalf of the government, assuring them of immediate support.
“Government will bear the cost of burial of the victims and we will provide rapid support for the survivors,” she said.
As part of the visit, over 600 life jackets and other relief items were presented to the local community. Prof. Opoku-Agyemang used the occasion to call for strict adherence to safety protocols by both boat operators and passengers to prevent future accidents.
“To those who work on the sea, please wear your life jackets. We plead with you, wear them always. And to our boat operators, we ask that before anyone boards, make sure they have their life jackets on. This simple act can prevent future tragedies,” she advised.
The Vice President expressed deep empathy for the community, noting that the disaster had touched every household and called for strength during the period of mourning.
“This tragedy affects every one of us… We would have loved to hear good news all the time, but that is not always the case. So, when things go the other way, we should still give thanks to God. It may be difficult, but sometimes there is nothing we can do.”
She also addressed concerns over the reported involvement of an 11-year-old operating the boat, stressing the importance of vigilance and responsibility in ensuring safety on Ghana’s waterways.
Reaffirming her commitment, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang assured the community that her presence was not politically motivated but intended to stand in solidarity with the victims.
“It’s not every day that we go out to campaign; sometimes, we must visit our people, see their situation, and understand the issues they face. We came here to stand with you, to offer our support and condolences.”
The Vice President concluded by pledging that the government would intensify efforts to enhance safety on inland water transport, promising further interventions to protect lives and livelihoods across vulnerable communities.
